More choice for travellers as M&S eyes extension at Belfast International Airport

M&S at Belfast International Airport

A planning application has been submitted to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council for an extension to the M&S Food outlet at Belfast International Airport.

The application, lodged by an agent on behalf of Moorefield Contracts, Belfast, proposes the reconfiguration of an existing service station to facilitate the expansion of M&S and the reduction of three food and beverage units to two.

A supporting planning and retail statement notes that one of the food outlets is currently vacant. The other two are occupied by fast-food giant Burger King and Chopstix, a noodle bar chain. The site also includes a shared dining space and toilet facilities.

Under the proposals, the existing food court would be reconfigured to extend the M&S branch while retaining two larger hot food units. Additional staff facilities would also be delivered.

The report states that the development would create ten new jobs, in addition to the 41 roles currently in place, and facilitate an extra 2,435 product lines. The “catchment” for the proposal is expected to remain within the airport.

This comes as Belfast International Airport continues to undergo major investment. In May, the airport opened the first phase of a £100m terminal expansion.

Separately, in November last year, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council granted planning permission for a new 81-bedroom Premier Inn near the airport.

Whitbread PLC, owner of Premier Inn, confirmed the £6m hotel is scheduled to open in 2026 at the junction of Airport Road, Antrim Road and British Road.

A report to the council’s planning committee stated: “Due to the nature of the development proposals, it is anticipated that the majority of visitors to the hotel will be associated with other airport-related activity.”

It added that a pedestrian link and footpath will be created, connecting to existing routes leading to the main airport terminal.