CHOICE Housing is investing £20 million to build 146 new homes in Carrickfergus at the former Courtaulds textiles factory site off Minorca Drive, which closed in the early 1980s.
The homes will include a range of two, three and four-bedroom houses, with a number being wheelchair accessible, and the scheme is expected to be completed by March 2025.
The new development, designed by Peter Byre of MHS Architects, will also be supported by an upgrade in infrastructure to roads, footways and other services including ancillary works to include the diversion of an existing public sewer crossing the site and the installation of a new wastewater pumping station.
Choice Group chief executive Michael McDonnell said: “The population of Carrickfergus is growing, and with it comes increasing demand for housing and other amenities. This new development is forming part of this plan and the road infrastructure surrounding the development will be a vital element.
“There has been significant investment in the Mid and East Antrim area, and our investment further demonstrates our commitment to addressing the growing need for quality affordable housing in Carrickfergus”.
Choice is working in partnership with South Down developer McGreevy Construction to deliver the design and build, who undertook a series of community-led consultations leading to planning approval in February.
Sean McGreevy from McGreevy Construction said: “This is a significant project for Carrickfergus, and the 146 new homes will provide safe, secure homes for more than 560 people”.
The site once formed part of the Courtaulds industrial complex and part of the railway which serviced the production of salt in Carrickfergus, employing thousands of people from east Antrim and the surrounding area.
