Landmark shopping centre loved in the 80s announces sudden closure as customers mourn ‘end of an era’
A SHOPPING centre loved in the 1980s has suddenly decided to close its doors in a huge blow to customers.
The centre was the first of its kind in Northern Ireland, prompting fans to mourn the “end of an era”.
Connswater Shopping Centre opened in East Belfast in 1983 and was an instant success.
It became a go-to destination for thousands of shoppers but began to decline in popularity over the years.
By January 2024, almost 50 per cent of its retail units lay empty with shoppers branding it a “shambles”.
Sadly, the shopping centre has decided to close its doors on March 21, 2025, after over 40 years of serving customers.
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A spokeswoman for Connswater Shopping centre said: “The evolving retail landscape, the loss of anchor tenants and difficult market conditions have made it increasingly challenging to sustain operations in a viable way in Connswater Shopping Centre.
“So, very regretfully and after much consideration of different options, we have now appointed BDO as Fixed Charge Receivers for the centre.
"We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our loyal customers, tenants, and staff who have supported Connswater Shopping Centre throughout the years.
“Your patronage and dedication have been invaluable, and we are deeply appreciative of the community spirit that has been fostered here throughout our 20 years of ownership.”
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Shoppers took to social media to pay tribute to the iconic shopping centre.
One user posted on FaceBook: “In Connswater now and an elderly lady had me and the Cardland employee crying.
“Where is she going to sit everyday now as she's lonely and comes here everyday to get out.”
Another mourned the “end of an era”.
He posted: “Bye bye connswater shopping centre .. set to close soon for development of social housing.
“End of an era in east belfast and another significant the easy slowly dying.”
East Belfast MP and DUP party leader Gavin Robinson said: “The closure of Connswater Shopping Centre next Friday marks a sad day for east Belfast.
“It has been a part of our community for decades; this shocking loss will be deeply felt.
“My thoughts are especially with those affected by uncertainty and job losses during this difficult time.”
The news comes as shops across the UK shut down due to hostile economic conditions.
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Michelin starred restaurants including Native have shut their doors, as well as clothing stores such as Select.
Some have blamed the October budget, where the owners of luxury restaurant La Goccia blamed Brexit for making it difficult to hire qualified workers.