Connswater Shopping Centre in east Belfast is to close in two weeks, with direct fixed charge receivers appointed.

The receivers said “having assessed viability” they have “unfortunately given notice to the remaining tenants” that the centre will close its doors on 21 March.

“Over these next weeks, [we] will support the tenants through this transition while assessing potential future uses at Connswater and options to market the centre for sale,” Michael Jennings of BDO NI said.

The 162,000 sq ft centre with 52 units has only 20 commercial tenants remaining.

The retail park and The Range and Lidl units are to remain open and fully operational.

A spokeswoman for the 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”.

“So, very regretfully and after much consideration of different options, we have now appointed BDO as Fixed Charge Receivers for the centre,” she added.

She expressed “deepest gratitude to our loyal customers, tenants, and staff who have supported Connswater Shopping Centre throughout the years”.

“We understand that this news will be disappointing to many, Connswater Shopping Centre has been more than just a shopping destination; it has been a part of the fabric of east Belfast.

“We deeply regret having to make this difficult decision.”

Democratic Unionist Party leader and East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson said it was a “sad day” and his thoughts “are with the staff facing unemployment”.

“My thoughts are especially with those affected by uncertainty and job losses during this difficult time,” he said.

“While the centre has been in visible decline for some time, it’s vital that the site remains of benefit to the people of the Newtownards Road and surrounding areas.”

Robinson said he will “engage with the owners on forward steps” and, alongside his party colleagues, will be “available to assist anyone impacted in any way we can”.