Plans for the construction of 20 dwellings in Dollingstown have been approved within a wider residential development.

The approved plans for the new homes, including solar panels and associated works on land immediately south-east of 9-19 Kensington Manor, were lodged by GRA Planning Ltd, Holywood, on behalf of Hilmark Homes Ltd in Portadown.

The plans include access from Inn Road Manor.

Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Planning officers noted in their report: “The site is a 0.9Ha cut out of a larger residential development which is currently under construction.

A CGI rendition of one of the approved house types. Image: ABC planning portal

placeholder image — A CGI rendition of one of the approved house types. Image: ABC planning portal

“The site is defined to the north and west by means of 1-2m high hedging with the development of Kensington Manor located to the north and the development of Taughrane Hall to the southwest.

“Officers are of the opinion that the proposed development will not be out of character when set in/against the general pattern of existing and approved development.

“In respect of design, form and external finishes, the proposed layout will provide both two-storey and two-and-a-half storey in height detached and semi-detached dwellings, with its external walls being a mixture of clay-facing brick and smooth render.

Planning approval for 10 new houses in Lurgan

The approved housing scheme in Dollingstown will be part of a larger residential development currently under construction. Image: ABC planning portal

“Having regard to the design features/character as constructed within the surrounding area, officers are of the opinion that the proposed development will not represent an incongruous and/or visually dominant form of development to the detriment of the existing visual resource.

“In respect of layout/amenity space and associated structures, every dwelling has a minimum of at least 68m2, well in excess of the Creating Places minimum stand of 40m2. In addition, the provision of open space is available within the wider site.”

The report continued: “Finally, a detailed planting scheme is proposed which includes a substantial augmentation planting scheme throughout the site which will visually soften both the internal layout of the proposed development, and also its interface with the surrounding developments.

“After undertaking a policy assessment and planning balancing exercise, Officers are of the opinion that the proposed development complies with the Area Plan, the SPPS (Strategic Planning Policy Statement) and all other relevant planning policies.

“On this basis, it is recommended that planning permission be granted.”