Supported living scheme gets go ahead

A planning application was submitted by Triangle Housing Association last summer for a development on the Hillsborough Old Road in Lisburn.

The scheme will include the demolition of existing buildings and the erection of a supported living scheme, as well as on site staff accommodation, car parking and landscaping.

There was considerable local objection to the development, with a petition and ten letters of objection opposing the application lodged with the Planning Service.

At this week’s meeting of Lisburn City Council’s Planning Committee, Councillor John Palmer expressed concern about road safety issues in the area.

Interfere

“I am not convinced all the issues on road safety have been dealt with,” said Mr Palmer.

“I would ask that the Planning Service ask Roads Service to look into this application and make recommendations.”

However, Councillor Brian Dornan urged the committee not to interfere with the application or hold up the construction of the development.

“We need to be very careful about turning down this application,” he warned.

“It is a key part of a strategy to provide top class accommodation and promote independence for residents and their families.”

Mr Dornan continued: “If it can be done in time, there is the potential for eight people to be discharged from hospital to live in the community.

“This scheme is beneficial and I would advise the council to do nothing to delay the scheme,” he added.

Despite the objections raised and the concerns expressed by Councillor Palmer, the application was given the go ahead by the Council’s Planning Committee.

Formed in 1977, Triangle Housing Association provide supported accommodation, family housing and specialised care and support services for tenants across Northern Ireland.

Specialist

Triangle is a registered Housing Association with the Department for Social Development. It develops, manages and maintains a range of high quality supported housing and general family accommodation sometimes in partnership with other specialist agencies.

For further information log onto www.trianglehousing.org.uk.