Pizza chain in talks to open in Portlaoise
Plans lodged for change of use from restaurant to takeaway pizza outlet at Portlaoise Shopping Centre
A large pizza chain is in talks to open a new outlet at Portlaoise Shopping Centre with a planning application lodged this week.
Surihol Limited, on behalf of their clients, have lodged plans for Unit 5, Portlaoise Shopping Centre for a change of use from restaurant use to takeaway Pizza outlet.
The application lodged with Laois County Council also seeks permission for the addition of business ID signage to the existing shopfront fascia.
While the application doesn't reveal the potential tenant it explains that there has been a strong expression of interest from a 'large pizza chain'.
"Portlaoise Shopping Centre underwent a significant refurbishment last year to upgrade the carpark, Dunnes Unit and the public façades and walkways and it has greatly improved the amenity and viability of the development. The owners are trying to secure tenants for the remaining vacant units. There is a strong expression of interest in this unit from a large pizza chain, but a change of use planning needs to be secured before the lease can be finalised," the planning application states.
"Once planning is granted, the internal design of the Unit will be carried out by the tenant’s design team and an application made to the EHO to agree internal layouts etc. We’ve notionally noted the location of future ductwork for supply and extract from the ovens, and this will also be subject to agreement once a final design is issued by the tenant. We would ask that these items be conditioned for agreement prior to commencement as part of the grant of permission, as there is no final design at this stage."
A decision is due to be made by council planners on September 1, 2025.