Smyths Toys to open superstore in Newtownabbey

According to TDK Commercial Property Consultants, the toy retailer will occupy the last remaining unit at Valley Retail Park, near Rathcoole.

The 25,000 sq/ft store is due to open in July 2016.

The confirmation that Smyths Toys is set to open in Newtownabbey is the latest piece of good news for the local retail sector, coming just days after the successful opening of the new 45,000 sq/ft Go Outdoors outlet at Valley Retail Park, and the recent unveiling of two new clothing stores - Bonmarche and Jack and Jones - at the Abbeycentre.

TDK, acting on behalf of AEW UK REIT PLC, which acquired Valley Retail Park last year for £7.15 million, negotiated the letting of the final unit at the Church Road complex.

Mark Thallon, Partner at TDK said: “The addition of Smyths Toys to Valley Retail Park will complement Go Outdoors and we are delighted that they have chosen Valley Retail Park for their latest store. The scheme is now fully let and together with existing tenants Harveys, Halfords and Harry Corry, this completes an excellent turnaround for the park in less than 12 months since AEW acquired it.”

Andrew Playfer from AEW added: “The addition of Smyths Toys to Valley Retail Park completes our initial strategy to reinvigorate the park following our purchase last year.”