Re-think demanded for Ballynahinch homes site

Re-think demanded for Ballynahinch homes site

5 June 2013

COUNCILLORS in Ballynahinch have expressed concern about plans for a major new housing development in the town.

They met last week with planning officials to discuss plans for 60 homes on land at the rear of the Millbrook Drive area.

Councillors Mickey Coogan, Anne McAleenan and Garth Craig argue the proposed site is not suitable for so many homes as it forms part of a flood plain.

However, all three made it clear they are not opposed to new development in Ballynahinch.

They say while the Millbrook Drive area is zoned for residential development in the Down Area Plan, this part of Ballynahinch has also been earmarked as an access from the Crossgar Road to the town’s proposed multi-million pound by-pass.

Last February, planners recommended the proposed housing scheme should proceed, but the decision was deferred at the request of Ballynahinch councillors.

Councillor Coogan said the Roads Service and Rivers Agency were concerned about the housing scheme, explaining the Roads Service initially objected to the proposed development and was asked to reconsider its decision by the Planning Service.

“The Rivers Agency has concerns about the flood plain but issued an approval,” he explained.

Councillor Coogan suggested if the proposed development went ahead without any changes to the roads infrastructure, at least 12 houses would be built on the flood plain.

He said it would appear the Rivers Agency approved the homes plan on the basis that the Ballynahinch by-pass is already in place.

Following last Friday’s meeting, it was agreed to hold another meeting to allow NI Water to express its view on the proposed development with a particular focus on the storm and foul sewerage infrastructure.

Councillor Coogan added: “Ballynahinch councillors are not opposed to new development in the town. Indeed, we would welcome growth in Ballynahinch and the construction jobs that come with development.

“However, we feel the Millbrook Drive area is the wrong location for this particular housing proposal. There are other more suitable sites for development.”