Plans for a new £16.5 million state-of-the-art technology facility in Newtownabbey have been approved for development.

Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council green lit the proposal for the Sensata Technologies project at Global Point Business Park.

Sensata Technologies has more than 100 years of experience in designing and developing sensors, controllers and other solutions that create insights for its global customer base. Its new research and development centre at Global Point will act as a regional hub within Europe and will accommodate up to 550 employees.

The new 61,500 sq ft Technology Centre represents the latest in a portfolio of advanced manufacturing projects being lined up for Global Point, positioning it as an increasingly desirable location for global companies to set up shop in Northern Ireland.

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Around 150 jobs are expected to be created during the construction phase.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman Stephen Ross said: "Sensata's decision to locate its new regional hub at Global Point represents the confidence investors have in the Borough. The Council recently signed off on one of the biggest advanced manufacturing investments in Northern Ireland's history - a new £150m facility by Ardagh Metal Packaging.

"Plans are also underway for the creation of a £100m Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Centre (AMIC), led by Queen's University. These strategic investments will act as an economic stimulus, attracting other companies to the area and cementing Global Point as a centre of advanced manufacturing excellence."

Chair of Planning Alderman Dr Fraser Agnew MBE added: "The Council has a reputation as the number one planning authority in Northern Ireland and we provide a complete package of support for investors. It is for these reasons that we are well on track to hit our target of £1bn investment and to create 2,000 jobs by 2025."