‘Think again’ over housing plans - Poots

Residents objecting to development plans for more social housing by Habinteg on a small plot of land have launched a petition with over 124 signatures so far.

One resident said, “Whilst understanding the need for affordable housing this proposed development to cram houses onto a small plot of green space comes inspite of assurances that no further attempts at developments would take place.

“In 2006/2007 there were plans to devleop houses on the area, With support from local elected representatives the proposed development was abandoned,

“The commununity benefits from an estate designed to directly address their needs; built to create an environment to ensure quality of life with freedom to allow children to play in safety and residents to enjoy the surrounds offered my mature trees and open space accessible to all.

“Planners should consider the current problems that have been imposed upon the long term residents of the area and the fact that additional housing forced into the area will only raise tensions

“Access to the new developments will turn both quiet cul-de-sacs into busy thoroughfares.

He went onto say, “There are a large number of mature trees and hedgerows around the potential site, within them lives a diverse range of wildlife.

“The residents of the area surrounding the proposed development are united in their resolve to reject any calls for further housing on this land.”

Mr Poots said, “This proposal by Habinteg in Iniscarn is not appropriate in that when the development was originally planned, green space was left for the use of the local community.

“It would be counterproductive for planners who are ensuring new private developments leave green space to give approval to public housing providers that reverses that policy,” Mr Poots said.

“The green area has a considerable number of trees which would also be lost if the area was built out.

“If this proposal is approved then it will open the door to wipe out green space throughout Lisburn which would be hugely retrograde.”

Habinteg have been contacted by the Ulster Star, for a comment but had not responded at time of going to press.