ONE of Galway's biggest retail developments ever opens its doors this morning when the massive TK Maxx store opens in the CityPoint complex at Eyre Square.
The 43,000 sq ft store, creating more than 50 jobs is the chain's biggest in Ireland and will represent a massive boost to city retail. The store is in the “Maxx category” which means that it will carry its entire stock range.
However, the landmark building that houses the store is set to create up to 250 extra jobs by the time all of its tenants have moved in.
Already a separate clothes store ZEBTAs set to open next door within weeks and a top name restaurant is finalising negotiations to open in the lower ground floor of the property before Christmas.
TK Maxx is the anchor tenant in the 90,000 sq ft development, which was designed by leading city architect Sean Dockry and Associates and developed by the well-known GK Developments group.
The ground floor area will also house a new and exciting retail fashion house ZEBRA – ‘not just black and white’ – eagerly awaited by style followers of the celebs! This unit is 3,500 sq.ft and will be stocked with the latest labels. It is to open its doors in early November.
Already a city centre landmark, CityPoint dominates the skyline into Eyre Square. According to its architects, the location merited a feature 21st century building to complement the modernised Eyre Square design. The concept of locating a tall building in the most elevated site in the city centre was conceived in the desire to create a reference point in the city.
A spokesman for TK Maxx said that it chose Galway because of its young vibrant population and it envisages trading very successfuly in its prime new position. It was also a factor that recent job announcements for the city further strengthen Galway’s position in the markets, indicating its recovery potential is better than others.
In addition, tthe top level at CityPoint is quiet simply the best vantage point to see over Galway City and it is there that architects, Sean Dockry and Associates, have sited 17 stunning apartments which include the JFK penthouse suite. Before they were completed, local hotelier, Eugene Keville of the Western Hotel, saw their huge potential and these apartments are now part of its group.
Since their completion, there has been huge interest, with visitors being hugely excited about their convenient location, stunning presentation, and on site carparking. Each apartment has been designed by leading Galway interior designer, Sharon Mattews, of Design Options, and is simply a luxury hotel room in the heart of the city.
Joe Greaney, Keane Mahony Smith, says demand was strong from the offset and through difficult markets CityPoint stood apart.
“Perfectly designed space meant that huge retailer TK MAXX were excited to commit. It will be well received in Galway and will boost retail activity and in turn Galway employment. I think the opening of this building proves the resilience of the Galway market in challenging times,” he said, adding that Keane Mahony Smith had recently fielded enquiries from companies looking for a 45,000 sq ft office space in the city centre, illustrating the strength of the Galway market.
