Over 500 new homes given go-ahead in £100m Antrim investment

They will be comprised of 200 detached, 164 semi-detached, 77 townhouses and 84 apartments through an investment of £100m which will see the creation of 70 jobs during construction.

The proposed development at Niblock Road includes six retail units, a play park and open space. To the west of the site is the railway line and Dunsilly/Holywell Burn to the north. A portion of the site extends to Stiles Way.

A report to the committee says The Junction, Antrim GAA Centre, Dunsilly Park and Ride and the M2 motorway are “within close proximity”.

Of the 208 neighbouring properties notified about the building proposal, six objections were received. Road safety and potential traffic congestion were among concerns raised as well as the possibility of “noise and disturbance” for residents of Mull Road.

The “close proximity” to the railway was also highlighted as well as “increased pressure” on the sewerage system.

A report to the committee said that “St. Comgalls GAC would like the development to provide an opportunity for a future access to Antrim GAA centre of participation”.

The report notes that construction will take place in three phases with a separate commercial phase.

It adds that “adequate provision is made for necessary local neighbourhood facilities to be provided by the developer”.

“Such services can increase vitality, provide a sense of community and enhance the social and economic sustainability of the development.”

To accommodate future customers, 119 car parking spaces and cycling parking spaces are included in the plan.

“Overall it is considered that the proposed development will not have an adverse impact on the amenity of existing properties in this area,” the report continues.

“It is considered that adequate and appropriate provision is made for parking within the development. DfI Roads has indicated no objection to the proposal in terms of parking or road safety matters with this proposal.”

A series of public open spaces, amenity areas and a river walkway are included as an” integral part” of the proposed development.

“Each of these public open spaces is readily accessible to those in and around the surrounding environs and further afield,” it says.

Traffic calming measures have been included in the design of the development with the provision of speed control bends and speed cushions.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter