19-apartment plan for former bank building in Ballymena town centre includes 'affordable housing' provision
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Planning Committee has granted permission for change of use of a former bank building to apartments in Ballymena town centre.
The application for partial demolition of 97 Mill Street, adaptation and change of use of the existing building, provision of a new three-storey extension with access at Albert Place to provide for 19 units was approved at a committee meeting on Thursday.
A planning officer told the meeting the application included provision for affordable housing. The proposal comprises 14 two-bed units and five one-bed units.
He said that the site is occupied by a vacant three-storey building which was constructed originally as a Belfast Bank branch. He said it was used as a medical practice before becoming vacant.
The officer added it is recognised as a building of “local historical importance due to its distinctive architectural detailing”.
He explained the proposed extension has been designed to “complement the existing building” through use of similar materials, noting the planned three-storey scale is “consistent with the building form along Mill Street”.
The officer went on to say DfI (Department for Infrastructure) Roads has advised the proposal does not meet “normal parking standards”. However, he noted public car parks and town centre facilities “in close proximity”.
He added that with regard to this application, “reduced parking provision is considered acceptable”.
He said as a result of the proposed retention of architectural character, compliance with policy and “absence of objections”, the proposal is considered acceptable and it was recommended that planning permission be granted.
Larne Lough Alliance Alderman Robert Logan said the proposal would “bring people to live in the town which is to be welcomed”. He proposed accepting the recommendation to approve the application.
Larne Lough DUP Ald Paul Reid asked how many of the proposed 19 apartments would be for social housing. He was advised this would be four.
Ald Reid asked if the planned development is “in keeping with the area ” recalling that a previous application for the site was refused.
The officer said the applicant, E&C Inns T/A Adair Arms Hotel, has “taken on board” comments of HED (Historic Environment Division), “realised the importance of the existing building and worked closely with the borough council and HED” to propose what he considered to be “a very good scheme” for the town centre of Ballymena.
Ballymena DUP Ald Reuben Glover pointed out parking provision at the proposed site was considered to be “sub-standard” by DfI. “I know that area very well. It is pretty bunged up during the day,” he remarked.
The officer replied the applicant has “taken on board there is less parking than required”, noting the location and proposals including bicycle vouchers, which was considered “satisfactory”.
The head of planning stated DfI Roads has “no objection given the town centre location”.
Mid and East Antrim mayor Ald Tom Gordon said the traffic report indicates 28 available spaces in the immediate surrounding area.
He added: “This is a good development. I am glad to see it. It has been a derelict building for some time. It is bringing life and vitality to the town centre. I would welcome that and second the proposal to accept the officer’s recommendation.”
The application was approved following a unanimous vote.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter