Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has approved plans for the new Birch Hill Centre for Mental Health, set to replace the current Holywell Hospital.

This landmark development is set to significantly improve mental health care services across Northern Ireland. The Council’s Planning Committee approved plans for the new £143 million Birch Hill Centre in just 26 weeks.

Located on trust-owned land south of Antrim Area Hospital, the Birch Hill Centre for Mental Health will consolidate Northern Trust Mental Health services into a cutting-edge facility. The new centre will feature 134 single bedrooms, dedicated spaces for staff and visitors, management offices, operational areas and essential amenities such as landscaped gardens and ample parking. Designed with the community in mind, the facility aims to provide an optimal environment for treatment and recovery.

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Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly commented: "I am pleased that the Council has approved plans for this much-needed centre for Mental Health. As a registered Nurse with over 40 years’ experience in Health and Social Care, I know first-hand how this facility will be a fundamental advancement for mental health care in Northern Ireland. It promises state-of-the-art services that will significantly benefit our community, addressing crucial needs and enhancing the quality of care available."

Chairperson of the Planning Committee, Councillor Jeannie Archibald-Brown, added:"Birch Hill Centre will play a crucial role in improving access to mental health services in Northern Ireland. We are committed to supporting projects that address critical community needs and improve the quality of life for our residents."