A multi-million pound housing development in Co. Armagh is to be recommended for approval three-and-a-half years after plans were first lodged.
The development would consist of 151 properties – a mix of both detached and semi-detached – together with site works and landscaping.
They are due to be built at Lurgan, on “lands between Eastway and Nos 10 and 20 Ballynamoney Lane”.
Portadown-based Hilmark Homes first brought forward proposals back in March 2015. Amended designs were later submitted.
Planning approval had previously been sought and granted for 191 houses.
This would originally have seen the removal of woodland to the south-west of the site and the sheough which runs parallel to Eastway.
With this fresh application is has been decided to retain the woodland and “enance the water feature to create a landscaped ecological corridor”.
Ecological surveys – including bat and newt assessments – have also been carried out.
A total of 62 new trees would also be planted – a mix of mountain ash, crab apple and sessile oak – if final approval is granted.
A supporting submission from chartered town planners say the current proposals present a “real planning benefit” to the previous 191-house development, in terms of a “reduction in density” and “much enhanced access arrangements”.
This proposal also provides 10% public space with a “fully equipped playground and three pedestrian links along the western boundary to the recreational cycle paths”.
The proposals had seen five letters of objection – three from the same person – submitted.
Among the concerns expressed are for noise pollution and the effect on local wildlife and the appearance of the area in general.
But after a long and detailed determination process, planners are about to recommend the scheme should proceed.
That is the opinion which will be going to the planning committee of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, which is due to take place this week.
