"The Super Valu opening a couple of weeks ago has actually advertised the development in a phenomenal way, " he says. "Since then we've lined up a number of other retailers.

The deals are agreed and the contracts are out, and as soon as the 'i's are dotted we'll be announcing the names."

Along with the 1,400sq m (15,069sq ft) anchor store the development comprises 1,700sq m (18,298sq ft) of office accommodation, 5,000sq m (53,819sq ft) of industrial space, 600sq m (6,458sq ft) of retail and pharmacy space, a 300sq m (3,229sq ft) medical centre and 400 parking spaces. A 68-bed hotel is due to open at the location within the next few weeks.

The Athlone Springs Hotel is owned by Oysterhomes and will be operated by the Vantage hotel-management company. The hotel will feature split-level restaurant, ballroom, conference room and meeting rooms.

According to Healy Hynes, the 1,600sq m health, fitness and leisure club is expected to be a significant attraction.

"We expect the club will be popular with hotel guests and people living in the west Athlone area. The facility will include a 20-metre pool, a fully equipped gym, an aerobics centre and four exclusive treatment rooms."

Hynes says the region has seen a population increase of almost 40% in the past five years, with no corresponding increase in services. "Over the coming weeks and months, more and more facilities will come on stream, making Gateway Centre the heart of the region."

Only a handful of office and industrial units now remain for sale in the development.

Offices range from 100sq m to 205sq m (1,076sq ft to 2,206sq ft) and available industrial space ranges from 350sq m to 900sq m (3 767sq ft to 9,687sq ft).

Offices are priced from 235,000 and industrial units from 565,163. According to Hynes, investors who have bought to date are commanding yields of around 5% to 6% on their property.

For further information contact Hynes Real Estate Alliance, Athlone on 090-647 3838.