The exceptionally strong level of trading in Blanchardstown Town Centre is expected to lead to a major increases in rents when the first general review takes place in October of 2001. In the meantime, there is intense competition among traders for any shops that become vacant.

Last week, Sean Barron's company, Flairline Fashions Ltd, paid key money of £359,000 for the 3,000 sq ft Richards fashion store, part of a chain of shops being closed down. It is one of the highest premiums paid in a Dublin shopping centre. The shop, which is rented at £90,000 per annum, will trade as Ashley Reeves .