Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has granted planning approval for a new social housing development aimed at residents aged 55 and over on Lisburn's Moira Road.

The decision was made by the council’s Planning Committee, which approved the proposed scheme on a site adjacent to numbers 3 to 19 Moira Road. The development will consist of 20 apartments in total, including 18 two-bedroom units and two one-bedroom apartments specifically designed to accommodate wheelchair users.

Planning Committee Chair Alderman James Tinsley said the development would deliver high-quality housing while meeting an identified local need. "This new development is expected to result in a high quality residential scheme, designed to complement the surrounding area. Alpha Housing, in consultation with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, has identified a need for this type of housing in Lisburn," he said.

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He added that the proposal aligns with council policy. "We are pleased to approve plans that meet the objectives of our statutory plans. The provision of much-needed social housing for over-55s in a highly accessible and sustainable location aligns with our Local Development Plan and Community Plan."

In addition to the residential units, the approved plans include communal amenity space, bin and cycle storage facilities, landscaping and on-site car parking.

The planning application was submitted by TSA Planning on behalf of Bluehouse Development Ltd. Alpha Housing has indicated its intention to purchase the site, subject to planning approval.

Alpha Housing provides housing and tenant support services across Northern Ireland, with a particular focus on sheltered accommodation for older people. The organisation is currently pursuing an ambitious growth programme centred on new-build developments to support independent living for older residents.