Private investor snaps up Co Antrim retail park in £5.4M deal

In a landmark transaction for Northern Ireland’s commercial property sector, Shore Road Retail Park in Newtownabbey has been sold to a local private investor for £5.4 million, reinforcing the region’s appeal for high-quality retail investments.

The sale, facilitated by leading commercial property agent CBRE NI on behalf of a UK institutional investor, was negotiated with the purchaser, who was advised by Savills.

The deal underscores the enduring allure of well-positioned retail warehouse assets, particularly those with strong tenant covenants and excellent transport links.

Located just four miles north of Belfast and adjacent to Junction 2 of the M2 motorway, Shore Road Retail Park is a modern retail scheme comprising three fully occupied units. High-profile tenants, including Pure Gym, Dunelm, and Dulux, anchor the park, ensuring consistent footfall and secure, long-term rental income.

Its strategic position within a bustling retail hub, which includes Abbey Retail Park, Valley Retail Park, and Abbey Shopping Centre, further enhances its investment appeal, with over 1 million square feet of retail floorspace in the surrounding area.

Gavin Elliott, Senior Director at CBRE NI, hailed the transaction as a testament to the resilience of the retail warehouse sector.

“We are pleased to have completed this high-profile sale on behalf of our client. Shore Road Retail Park is a prime example of a well-positioned, modern retail scheme anchored by strong covenants and delivering secure, long-term income,” he said.

“While the investment market has been somewhat challenging in recent times, the strong performance of the retail warehouse sector in 2024 has carried into 2025. This transaction highlights the continued appetite for quality retail warehouse investments in strategic, accessible locations across Northern Ireland, and demonstrates the resilience and attractiveness of this asset class in the current market.”

The deal comes at a time when investor confidence in Northern Ireland’s retail property market remains robust, particularly for assets that combine accessibility with high-calibre tenants.

Shore Road Retail Park’s proximity to Belfast and its connectivity via the M2 motorway make it a standout choice for investors seeking sustained rental growth and long-term value.

Paul Wilson, Director, Retail at Savills, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the park’s strategic importance.

“We were pleased to have supported the purchaser in securing this strategically located asset. With a high-calibre tenant line-up and consistent footfall, the property presents a compelling opportunity for sustained rental growth and long-term value,” he said.

“Its position within a busy and accessible retail hub only strengthens its appeal as a resilient investment.”

The sale of Shore Road Retail Park reflects broader trends in the UK retail investment market, where demand for well-located retail warehouse properties continues to outpace other commercial asset classes. Northern Ireland, in particular, has emerged as a focal point for investors, thanks to its stable tenant base and growing consumer demand.

This transaction not only highlights the strength of Newtownabbey as a retail destination but also signals a positive outlook for Northern Ireland’s commercial property market in 2025.

For further information on commercial property investments in Northern Ireland, contact CBRE NI or Savills.