Environment Minister Alex Attwood has announced that DOE Planning is to recommend planning permission for a residential development in Newtownards.

The development site lies between the Bangor and Donaghadee Roads to the north of the town and will provide a new residential neighbourhood with over 500 mixed dwellings, a significant area of open space, landscaping and pedestrian and cycle links.

The proposal also includes a distributor road linking the Bangor Road to the Donaghadee Road which will be delivered by the developer.

Environment Minister Alex Attwood said: "At over 500 houses, this is among the most significant housing permissions we have issued for several years and is an area that has been zoned for housing as part of the Ards and Down Area Plan 2015. It will deliver a critical phase of the developer led ring road around Newtownards which will relieve congestion in the town centre in the long term.

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"My officials have also ensured that any existing habitats identified on the site will be protected through appropriate phasing of the development and effective site management during construction. It is also proposed to create a significant area of open space that will benefit prospective residents and act as a wildlife corridor."

The Minister concluded: "It is crucial that the planning system delivers for house builders like Dunlop Homes who, despite difficult conditions, are confident to invest in their local areas and provide significant employment.

"I am determined that DOE Planning continues to make decisions swiftly, particularly those decisions where job opportunities are at stake. However this is only after giving careful consideration to the individual merits of each case."

(CD/GK)