Planners to lift development freeze on Newcastle in July

Planners to lift development freeze on Newcastle in July

9 January 2013

THE planning moratorium in Newcastle caused by the town’s outdated sewage works is coming to an end.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), which has blocked new development in the resort since 2008, has said it is prepared to lift the ban because of a multi-million pound upgrade of the treatment works.

However, the NIEA said it will only approve new development which is completed after the end of June, once the new treatment works comes on line.

New development has been halted in Newcastle since the sewage treatment works at the harbour reached full capacity leading to the NIEA taking the unusual step of blocking development.

Newcastle councillor Willie Clarke, welcomed the significant move as positive for businesses and especially people in the tourist industry.

“Since 2008 NI Water’s position has been maintained in agreement with NIEA that new connections to the sewer will not be recommended by NI Water except for those where previous commitment has been given, or ‘like for like’ development, and any proposal that reduces the loading on the sewer,” said Mr. Clarke.

“This position is causing considerable anxiety and financial pressure on business trying to expand tourist related business such as cafes, bars and restaurants and tourist accommodation providers.

“There is a need to strike the right balance between protecting the environment and creating adequate conditions for economic growth in our tourist industry,” he added.

Mr. Clarke says the decision by the NIEA provides the clarity that planning applicants need.

“I welcome this clarity at long last which will ensure current planning applications will not be refused on the grounds of being unable to connect to Newcastle treatment works. Applicants can now plan for their new builds with a degree of confidence,” he said.