New traffic lights by ‘end of 2027’ as plans for almost 100 new homes in Larne approved
Traffic lights are expected to be installed at Donaghy’s Lane, in Larne, by the end of 2027, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council’s Planning Committee has been told.
The issue was highlighted at a meeting of the committee at The Braid, Ballymena, on Thursday morning, during a reserved matters application for 96 new homes at Blackthorn Rise in the town.
The proposal is for the construction of dwellings to include 17 detached, 58 semi-detached, six townhouses, two bungalows, four maisonettes and nine apartments.
A planning officer told the committee the land is currently agricultural, It is a 3.5 hectare site consisting of two fields.
He reported that eight objections have been received by planners relating to concerns about over-development, effect on road network, increased traffic, loss of green space and potential for overlooking.
The officer said there was no objection by Department for Infrastructure (DfI) Roads, adding that traffic signalisation at Donaghy’s Lane will be delivered.
Larne Lough DUP Aldernan Paul Reid stated there is “very heavy congestion and a lot of traffic up and down Donaghy’s Lane and at Antiville Road”. He asked when the traffic lights will be installed.
Planning consultant Tom Stokes indicated they could be expected “towards the end of 2027”.
Ald Reid proposed the committee accepted the recommendation to approve the application.
He said: “I have no doubt people in Larne will look forward to seeing these traffic lights in operation at long last.”
Coast Road Sinn Fein Cllr James McKeown said he was “happy to second”. Following a vote, the application was approved unanimously.
Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter