Plans get go-ahead for 44 new houses at Dungannon

Planning approval has been given for 44 new houses to be built on the outskirts of Dungannon.The two detached and 42 semi detached dwellings are earmarked for Carland Road on the site of the former Drumglass High School.Two petitions of objection - one with six signatures, one with 20 signatures - were received by the Planning Office.Sinn Féin councillor Dominic Molloy, who voiced concerns about the application, stressed he wasn’t against new housing for Dungannon.He said there was a good deal of concern in the Knockmore Drive area about a lack of play facilities for children and green space.Councillor Molloy said the new development in time would link-up with the council’s pathway connecting recreation sites in the town. “Any new housing is welcome in Dungannon as it is needed,” he said. “It will open up this end of the town for new development.”Members of the planning committee heard an access road has already been created into the site and a number of foundations have been provided in general accordance with a previous permission for a housing development.“The site is in a run down state with mounds of soil and broken fencing towards Carland Road,” said a planning office. He explained in 2006 planning permission for 35 detached dwellings on a large site, with 30 detached dwellings was approved on the site.He pointed out that no significant concerns had been raised by the statutory authorities and taking into account all the relevant policies, and the objections received, he recommended to the members the application is approved with conditions.