50th anniversary of Ards Shopping Centre

That this House congratulates Ards Shopping Centre in Newtownards on celebrating its historic 50th anniversary landmark; notes that since officially opening its doors in June 1976 as Northern Ireland’s very first hypermarket, anchored by the iconic and fondly remembered Woolco, it has stood as a progressive, premier retail destination for the people of the Ards Peninsula and the wider County Down region; commends the centre’s ongoing dedication to serving the local community by remaining a vibrant hub for commerce, employment, family days out, and social connection; highlights its successful modern evolution into a bustling retail complex hosting vital community anchors like Asda, Primark, and TK Maxx; and wishes the management team, centre staff, retailers, and the entire shopping community of Newtownards continued growth, success, and prosperity for the next fifty years.