Although builders will enjoy a boost as the contract gets underway, planning approval for a 33-strong development of properties on the Ballymoney Road in Ballymena has provoked dismay.

It was approved by planners despite 105 letters of objection with councillors at a recent Public Sector Liaison Committee voicing their disappointment at planners decision to back the mixed use housing development proposed by Ovalbridge.

It will comprise 14 apartments, seven semi-detached, three detached and nine townhouses on lands to the rear of 305 Ballymoney Road.

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Speaking at the meeting Ballymena Mayor, Councillor James Currie said: "This indicates this Council have little or no influence on planning decisions."

The main concern raised by objectors was the affect the development would have on the already highly problematic storm and foul water drainage on the sewage system in the area.

Local Councillor Monica Digney also voiced her support for the residents, she said: "I would agree with everything that has been said, the sewage will not be adequate.

"There will be a problem and this will need to be addressed," she told the local Ballymena Times.

Senior Planning Officer Denise Kerr responded by informing the meeting that planning went through every detail of the application, she said: "The current proposal has slight benefits for the hydraulic performance of the Ballymoney Road area. A member of staff spoke to NI water who said they can't refuse an application that improves hydraulic performance.

"Planning confirmed every aspect of the proposal and went through it with a fine tooth comb, it meets the standard."

(BMcC/GK)