Clanmil hoping to get green light for £4m social housing scheme

The housing association’s application for the erection of 36 apartments at Graham Gardens was deferred by the council’s Planning Committee on Monday, November 7.

While planners recommended that the application be refused due to concerns over a lack of car parking, committee members decided to defer the matter to give Clanmil an opportunity to address the issues raised.

Planning Committee chairman, UUP Councillor Alexander Redpath commented: “The committee heard reports from the planning officers and representatives of Clanmil. After questioning from the members it became clear that the provision of parking would be a key issue in our determinations. Several members thought it would be worthwhile to afford the applicant a short adjournment to investigate the options regarding parking.

“The application will return to the committee in the future for determination.”

Stressing that Clanmil is keen to progress the project, a spokesperson for the housing association said: “Clanmil is committed to continuing our investment in Lisburn by providing good homes to help address the growing housing need in the area. Our current proposal for 36 new homes at Graham Gardens will, when complete, represent a £4million investment in the city.

“We have worked hard to hear the views of the local community and their elected representatives and we are disappointed that a decision on our planning application has been deferred due to concerns about car parking.

“The site is well served by existing free public parking and, given its central location, is close to excellent public transport links.”

The Clanmil spokesperson added: “We are considering the council’s comments and appreciate the continued assistance of local political representatives who support our plans.

“We look forward to receiving planning consent so that we can move forward with delivering homes at Graham Gardens for people who really need them.”