
By Richard O'Reilly
Planning permission has been approved for 81 residential dwellings at the former IAWS site in Newbuildings.
The redevelopment of the former industrial site will include demolishing the existing derelict buildings on site, before constructing 81 dwellings with parking,
The application will now be issued by the Planning Officers to the applicants.
The application was submitted by JTJ (IAWS) Group Ltd and is for the erection of predominantly detached and semi-detached dwellings. The site is located on land last used for industrial purposes and has been vacant for a considerable time.
Welcoming the decision, Chair of the Planning Committee, Councillor Dan Kelly said: “I am delighted to see the redevelopment of the site which can now be utilised to provide much needed housing and open space in the Newbuildings area. I know this will be welcome news for the local community and I look forward to seeing the realisation of these plans as they develop.”
Meanwhile Alderman Graham Warke said "Myself and Gary Middleton MLA have been working with the new owner and developer of this site for a considerable time to ensure that it was brought back into use.
"We were pleased to have been involved in the public consultation with the local community and to facilitate several meetings. This planning approval will allow for work and development to begin on the site."
Gary Middleton MLA added "This is a good news story for the Newbuildings village and wider community as it will bring a vacant site back into use with high quality housing. We look forward to seeing the development progress over the coming months."