Barracks to become dwellings

Barracks to become dwellings

25 September 2013

THREE of the district former police stations are in line to be redeveloped to provide new social housing.

The Planning Service has this week approved plans by Trinity Housing to redevelop the former PSNI base at Downpatrick Street in Saintfield to provide 12 homes.

The Connswater Housing Association has purchased the former PSNI station at the Downpatrick Road in Killyleagh where it plans to build 12 new homes, while the Recorder understands the former Crossgar police station is also being eyed for new social housing.

The Saintfield scheme was approved at Down Council’s monthly meeting on Monday evening, despite concerns from two local councillors.

Councillors Maria McCarthy and William Dick raised concerns on behalf of two homeowners living nearby at Rowallane Dale concerning the height of the buildings, suggesting the foundations could be built slightly lower.

A representative from the Planning Service said, however, that such a move would be costly to the housing association and not necessary as they met all planning requirements.

Councillors Billy Walker and Liam Johnston urged the development to get the go-ahead as soon as possible.

Councillor Robert Burgess added: “I hope the people of Saintfield get these houses.”

Mr. Walker, said plans to redevelop the former police bases in Saintfield and Killyleagh will help address the need for new social homes.

“I am delighted the Saintfield scheme has been approved and hopefully it will be the first of three similar schemes in the Rowallane area,” he continued.

“There is also a possibility that a second social housing scheme for Saintfield could be announced in the near future. It’s my understanding that discussions to deliver this particular scheme could be nearing a successful conclusion.”