A CONTROVERSIAL multi-million pound housing development is set to be built in Newtownabbey.
Plans for 181 new homes on land off Park Road, Mallusk were recommended for approval at last night's monthly meeting of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council planning committee.
The expected approval comes despite the fact over 100 objections have been lodged against the planned development on the 28.5 acre site, being brought forward by Park Road Developments (NI).
A petition containing forty-six (46) signatures from residents at the neighbouring Poplars development was also submitted in opposition.
Key issues raised against construction include a possible flood risk and an increase in traffic resulting in subsequent congestion and pollution. A lack of parking provision on site was also noted in opposition, as well as the potential loss of a natural habitat for many species of bird and wildfowl.
The proposed residential development, which has been revised down in size from an initial 232 homes, includes 53 detached dwellings, 110 semi-detached homes and 18 apartments. The plans also include provision for garages, car parking and a bridge.
The development proposals, designed by Ballymoney-based Here Architects, also incorporate approximately nine acres of public open space, which includes an equipped children’s play area and playing field.
In recommending approval for development the council planning officer's report said there is "no adverse effect on existing or proposed properties in terms of residential amenity, loss of light, overshadowing, noise or other disturbance".
They also said that no development would take place until potential flood risks were dealt with. The report further stated that the proposal is "unlikely to significantly impact protected or priority species".
Park Road Developments (NI) has James Patterson and John Stewart listed as its two company directors.
