THE decision of Marks & Spencer to anchor the third phase of the Pavilions Shopping Centre is a 'vote of confidence' in the future of retailing in Swords and the Fingal region.

That's according to Fingal Dublin Chamber of Commerce, who welcomed the 'most important and significant' commercial retail letting announced this year. 'The Pavilions Shopping Centre is now one of the key regional retailing centres not only in the Fingal area, but in the greater Dublin region,' chamber chief executive, Tony Lambert. ' This decision by Marks & Spencer is a clear vote of confidence in the Pavilions Shopping Centre and will lead to more and more retailers wanting to be part of this successful retail offering.

'With over 1,500 people already employed in the Pavilions, Marks & Spencer will add another 450 much needed jobs when they open in 2014.

'It is expected that the shopping centre will employ between 4,500 and 5,000 when phase three is completed.'

Mr Lambert also called for the Metro North decision-making process to be accelerated to ensure the integration of the rail line with the planned development of the Pavilions would happen in a timely and wellplanned manner.

'What is needed now is a clear commitment by Government and the various agencies involved together with Fingal County Council and developers like Chartered Land to deliver on the Metro North Economic Development Plan,' he added. The announcement has been welcomed by local Fianna Fáil TD, Darragh O'Brien, who said it was great news for local people.

'Marks & Spencer is a very strong and popular brand and it is great that they have chosen Swords for their new store,' Deputy O'Brien said. 'It is planned that this new store will be the biggest in the Republic. The arrival of Marks & Spencer in Swords also presents an opportunity for our local growers who produce some of the finest vegetables in the country. I am hopeful that Marks & Spencer will take full advantage of this local resource. ' The Pavilions has proven to be a popular choice for retailers and their staff must be commended for attracting Marks & Spencer.'