New superstore in Limerick to cushion the blow of shop’s closure

A RETAIL park on the edge of Limerick is to get a new outlet in the shape of a bed and sofa superstore.

Carpetright ceased trading at Parkway Retail Park in Dublin Road last year. Since then, its former unit has lain idle.

But now, developers have sought permission to make changes which could pave the way for a new sofa store and bed specialist there.

Targeted Investment Opportunities Icav, a development fund responsible for projects across Ireland, has sought planning permission from Limerick City and County Council to transform the unit next to Currys PC World.

It is seeking to add a second level to allow for additional trading floor space, as well as new signage and other site works needed to facilitate the development.

Supporting documents presented to local planners reveal that the proposed tenant is Hometime Retail Ltd.

This trades as Dreams and Sofatime, with its proposed new unit in the Parkway co-branded in this manner.

Bed specialist Dreams would “dominate” the ground floor of the retail unit if permission is given.

Sofatime is an Irish sofa brand which trades from seven sites across Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down and Tyrone.

New chapter for Limerick garda station

“Sofatime will have a presence on the ground floor and dominate the mezzanine area,” the planning document adds.

Limerick City and County Council are expected to make a decision on plans for the old unit on or before Saturday, February 17 next.

The same development fund has had a number of applications approved by planners in the Parkway Retail Park.

Most recently, an application to change the use of the former Homebase store paved the way for Decathlon to replace it.