Reeds Rains reviewing Northern Ireland branches

An estate agency which earlier on Monday issued a statement saying it was closing all its Northern Ireland branches has now said that is not correct.

Reeds Rains now says it is "reviewing our branch network in Northern Ireland".

"We are exploring the opportunity to change the operational model through investment in franchising," it added.

Reeds Rains, which is headquartered in Yorkshire, employs 72 people in NI.

"We believe local ownership of the branches in Northern Ireland, but continuing to trade under the established Reeds Rains brand, is the best approach to ensuring the future success of the business and the people working in the branches," it said.

The Reeds Rains branches are in Portadown, Glengormley, Newtownards, Carrickfergus, Bangor, Lisburn and two in Belfast on the Lisburn and Andersonstown roads.

The earlier statement issued by the company said the branches would close by the end of year.

However, Reeds Rains said this statement was issued without approval and was incorrect.