Robin Newton East Belfast DUP MLA has welcomed the good news regarding Tor Bank Special School and its new build programme.

Robin Newton said the Planning Service had turned around plans for Tor Bank Special schools in the Dundonald area in just four and a half months due to the Pre Applications Discussions (PADs) process.

The PADs process meant that Planning Service staff ensured that dialogue with applicants/agents and consultees began before the applications were submitted. This continued throughout the planning process to resolve any issues and avoid unnecessary delays.

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This means that work can commence before the new school term on a replacement school for Tor Bank Special School.

Tor Bank Special School currently has 124 pupils with severe learning difficulties and the existing site is no longer adequate in terms of classroom or playground size.

This site is on a steep slope which presents additional problems for children with mobility problems.

As the current site cannot be expanded, the planning application was for a larger school at a corner site at the junction of Dunlady Road and the Upper Newtownards Road.

Commenting on the approval the Junior Minister Robin Newton said: "I welcome the fact that Planning Service has managed to bring this clearly critical planning application to decision so quickly by working effectively with all those involved."

(GK/BMcC)