Planning consultancy Turley Associates, acting for the Trustees of the Diocese of Down and Conor, has secured a major planning decision that will see the regeneration of West Belfast.

The 85-acre scheme, known as Glenmona, will see the construction of an urban village comprising:

• 450 new homes

• The replacement of existing care home facilities

• Space for light industry and business

• An education campus

-- Advertisement --

• A hotel

• A shopping area and community and cultural facilities

• A variety of open spaces and recreation areas.

Northern Ireland's Environment Minister Mark Durkan announced the decision to grant planning permission on 9 October.

Michael Gordon, Office Director in the Belfast office of Turley Associates, said: "We are delighted with this announcement. The redevelopment of the 85-acre Glenmona site is one of the most significant mixed-use development projects in the City.

"Over time it will bring much needed social and affordable housing, jobs and opportunity and hopefully kick-start the wider plans for the area. We are very grateful to all who had an input into the masterplanning and engagement process and look forward to seeing the project being taken forward."

(CD/JP)