Multi-million pound plan for housing

Site of the former Dunmurry High School.

Following a meeting with Department of Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland, MLA Jonathan Craig welcomed the news that outline planning permission is to be granted for the site, which will see the delivery of 90 new social houses in the Seymour Hill area.

Mr Craig said: “The Seymour Hill area has a huge waiting list from young families who have previously grown up in the area and who now wish to remain close to their relatives and friends.

“According to the Housing Executive’s own figures, they only have approximately 89 properties in the Seymour Hill area, leaving many families waiting years to be housed.

“The announcement of the 90 new social houses being delivered on the old Dunmurry High School site will be greatly received by many families in the Seymour Hill Area.”

Mr Craig added: “Having seen the plans that Connswater Housing Association have produced for the site, with the Government investment of £9.2m and the £500,000 that Lisburn City Council have earmarked, I am confident that this investment will be a catalyst for the area and will lead to the old Dunmurry High School, which had a wonderful past, delivering a positive future for the whole of the Seymour Hill area.”

Lisburn City Mayor, Councillor Margaret Tolerton also welcomed the news. She said: “As well as the Social Housing investment, the Council in conjunction with Jonathan Craig MLA and the local community have set up a working group, chaired by myself that will oversee the development of the school site and I would urge everyone in Seymour Hill to take part in the consultation process that is ongoing.” “This is a great opportunity for the whole community of Seymour Hill to have their say, regarding the prospect of a Multi Use Games Areas (muga), play area, community building and other projects being delivered on the site,” Mrs Tolerton added.

Mr Craig and Mrs Tolerton commended the Community Groups in the area for the drive and commitment they have shown and look forward to work commencing on the site.