IKEA planning to open first store outside Dublin

IKEA is planning to open a new superstore in Cork.

It could create 500 jobs if it is as big as the Swedish furniture giant's Ballymun store in Dublin.

Temple Bar Management Company Ltd, on behalf of Ikea Investments Properties Ltd, met Cork County Manager Tim Lucey and two other officials over the summer.

There was a "general discussion about a proposal to build and operate an Ikea store in the Cork region".

Damian Wallace, former Lord Mayor of Cork City in 1999, also lobbied the council on behalf of Temple Bar Management Company Ltd.

Last week the furniture company opened its first Order and Collection Point in Ireland, at Carrickmines.

A spokesman said: "We are continuing to explore opportunities outside Dublin, including Cork and other locations."