Planning permission has been granted for a number of developments in the Londonderry and Strabane district, including plans for over 240 homes in Drumahoe.

Derry City and Strabane District Council's Planning Committee approved the plans for 241 homes located to the north and east of The Beeches and north east of Old School Field, Glenshane Road, Drumahoe. They will comprise a mix of 102 detached, 124 semi-detached and 15 apartments. A children's play area will also be built as part of the project.

The Planning Committee also granted consent for the redevelopment of the historic Cunningham Building at Ebrington. The plans involve the restoration of the former military barracks, which is a Grade 2 listed building, and internal alterations to provide office accommodation for the Kevin Watson Group. The vacant site is located at the south eastern corner of the significant strategic site, east of the underground car park.

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Two sites in the city centre also got the green light for redevelopment, located in Sackville Street and Little James Street. Members approved plans for two retail units and above apartments at the former Jackie Mullan's bar site at the corner of Sackville Street and Little James Street. Meanwhile another two ground floor commercial units and 11 apartments on the floors above were given the go ahead at a gap site adjacent west of No. 8 Sackville Street.

Speaking after the meeting, Planning Committee Chair, Councillor Warren Robinson, welcomed the proposed developments: "I am delighted to see these plans granted approval today. The provision of over 240 new homes in the Drumahoe area is particularly significant as it will have a major impact on the development of the area.

"It demonstrates Council's commitment to alleviating the growing pressure on housing provision here in Derry and Strabane, and improving the quality of new developments as they progress through our planning system, a priority of our emerging Local Development Plan. The introduction of new retail and accommodation space is also welcome news, enhancing the current offering within our city centre."

(CM/MH)