Larne: Green light for proposed new facility manufacturing 'super-conducting' wires
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has approved planning permission for proposed sub-division and part change of use of an existing unit from storage and distribution to manufacturing at Ballyhampton Road, Larne.
A development management officer’s report stated there is an existing storage and distribution unit situated within this site. An industrial unit is currently vacant.
The application relates to the proposed manufacturing of “super-conducting” wires. Machinery will include insulation braiding machines, wire drawing machines, wire twisting machines and wire rewinding machines.
The report noted one letter of objection to the proposal expressing concern over potential further congestion at Donaghy’s Lane, position of the entrance gate and hours of operation.
The report indicated there are no proposed extensions or external changes to the building and no alterations to the access. It was stated the access “does not prejudice road safety or inconvenience the flow of road users”.
A planning statement, submitted by the agent on behalf of applicant Ballyhampton Ltd, indicated the proposed unit will operate 24 hours a day and although there will be a requirement for materials to be delivered to and collected from the site, this movement will be “sporadic and short-term in nature” with shutter doors open for a “short duration” with this activity taking place between 09.00 until 18.00.
The report indicated the council is “satisfied there is adequate car and HGV parking at the site to serve the development”.
It also noted: “It has been demonstrated that the proposed use will not have an unacceptable adverse impact upon the amenity of existing residents.”
The report went on to say Department for Infrastructure Roads has not raised any concerns regarding the existing road network and there is “sufficient capacity to safely manage the extra vehicular traffic that the proposed development will generate”.
It also stated: “NI Water have been consulted and provided a response recommending refusal due to no capacity in the waste water network that transports the sewage to the works.
“On balance, it is not felt to be reasonable to withhold a planning determination pending the development of waste water infrastructure in the area.
“There will be a condition added to any approval stating that a resolution is reached prior to the commencement of any development of waste water infrastructure in the area.”
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter