A new block of social housing has been approved in the Lenadoon area of West Belfast.
Elected representatives at the recent monthly meeting of Belfast Council’s Planning Committee green lighted 23 social housing units at 32, 34, and 36 Corrib Avenue.
It will involve the demolition of existing buildings and the construction of 13 houses and 10 apartments with new car parking, landscaping, associated site works and access arrangements.
The council planning report states: “The proposed development will not adversely impact the character and appearance of the surrounding area. It is considered to be sympathetic in its built form, scale, massing and appearance with the surrounding area and neighbouring properties.
“It is considered that it will not raise any unacceptable issues in relation to residential amenity including overshadowing, loss of light and overlooking. The proposal is unlikely to have a significant impact on the local road network in terms of traffic, road safety and parking.
“Provision for parking has been incorporated at a ratio of just over one space per dwelling unit - 27 spaces for 23 dwelling units. This reduced standard is considered acceptable due to the site’s sustainable location along with the provision of Green Travel Measures -a travel card for each unit for a period of one year.”
Stormont’s Department for Infrastructure requested the applicant, Choice Housing Ireland Ltd, give residents three year travel cars. Choice offered one year travel cards for each unit, which was accepted by the council.
The site is in the Lenadoon area of West Belfast, it is located at the end of cul-de-sac Corrib Avenue which also serves existing two storey terraced housing. There is pedestrian access on to Shaws Road to the east of the site, while to the south is St Pauls Gaelic Athletic Club and a number of local shops and services fronting onto Shaws Road.
None of the statutory agencies objected, and no letters of objection were received by the council. One letter of support was submitted by Sinn Fein MLA Alex Maskey and Sinn Fein Councillor Ronan McLaughlin, who stated that they “recognised the housing need" in the area, and that the new development would "help tackle anti-social behaviour" there.
Chair of the Planning Committee, Sinn Fein Councillor Arder Carson, said: “I am absolutely delighted the approval has been granted. It will be in my constituency, and I can’t wait to see those blocks of flats demolished and the new homes taking their place.”
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