A clear vision of how the Antrim and Newtonabbey borough should develop over the next few years has been unveiled in a draft Plan Strategy.

The document sets out the Council's ambitions and policies for employment, infrastructure, housing and sustainable growth and follows extensive consultation with residents, businesses and statutory partners.

The draft strategy is for the new Local Development Plan, a key framework for guiding decisions about how the Borough will grow and develop in a sustainable fashion in the coming years and complement the outcomes of its community plan.

It will outline how the Borough should develop up to 2030.

-- Advertisement --

Speaking at the launch event in Mossley Mill, Alderman John Smyth, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey said: "This is a significant milestone for our Council and our citizens. The draft Plan Strategy marks the first time the Council has been at the forefront of the development plan process since powers were transferred in April 2015.  We are committed to using this powerful place-shaping tool to benefit the people who live in Antrim and Newtownabbey, those who work in our local businesses and invest in our Borough and the visitors who support our growing tourism sector.

"The Council is committed to promoting our Borough as a smart and prosperous place and ensuring that we deliver development that meets our economic and social needs without compromising the quality of our environment."

The draft Plan Strategy outlines plans for growth of nearly 10,000 new homes. It also seeks to encourage the growth of indigenous businesses, promote innovation and proactively attract investment to facilitate the growth of up to 9,000 new jobs by 2030.

The draft Plan will be available to view online and in person until 20 September with residents, community groups, developers and statutory partners able to share their feedback from 26 July.