PLANNING approval has been granted for 525 new homes to be built close to The Junction retail park in Antrim.
The scheme, which is expected to represent an investment of around £100 million, could also see six new shops developed alongside new public spaces on the north-east edge of the town.
The applicant is DR Mitchell Ltd, owned by Carrickfergus-based developer David Mitchell.
The reserved matters application provides for 200 detached houses, 164 semi-detached, 77 townhouses and 84 apartments, built on a 26 hectare site in several phases.
The chair of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, Alderman Fraser Agnew said: “This huge expansion will transform Antrim for the better, acting as a catalyst for continued economic growth in the town.
“It is further proof of the confidence investors have in our Borough and will be welcome news for local businesses and suppliers.”
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey Alderman Stephen Ross added: “This major development will help with the growing demand for housing in the area, particularly from first-time buyers.
“The development will be served by six new local shops, creating between 80-100 new retail jobs. It will also provide a major boost to the local construction industry, with the applicant indicating the scheme will create 70 jobs during the construction phase.”
