Planning Approval Granted for £7 Million Social Housing Project in Antrim

Planning permission has been granted for a significant redevelopment project in Antrim, Northern Ireland. The £7 million initiative involves the partial demolition of the Castle Mall shopping centre to make way for urgently needed social housing. The decision was reached during a meeting of the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s Planning Committee on Monday evening.

The approved proposal includes the construction of 39 new dwellings on the town centre site, comprising one detached house, 14 terrace homes, and 24 apartments. The project will be developed by Choice Housing and will also feature one retail unit and adequate parking facilities. Enhancements to vehicular access via Railway Street and an upgraded footpath to High Street are also part of the plans.

Project Details and Community Impact

During the meeting, planning officer Ashleigh Wilson highlighted that the site lies within the Antrim Town Conservation Area and is bordered by the Central Car Park and High Street.

“Part demolition of the Castle Mall shopping centre is considered acceptable,”

Wilson stated, adding that the new housing could potentially enhance foot traffic and vibrancy in the town centre.

The proposal includes 36 parking spaces to accommodate residents, who will also receive a three-year travel card from Translink and a bicycle voucher, promoting sustainable transport options. While three letters of objection were submitted, citing concerns about increased traffic and congestion, the overall benefits were deemed to outweigh the drawbacks.

An assessment presented to the committee noted that as of October 2025, there were only 16 units operating within Castle Mall, with over half remaining vacant. The report acknowledged that while the proposal results in the loss of 22 retail units, the potential benefits justify the redevelopment.

Support for Housing Needs

Planning consultant Tom Stokes emphasized the pressing need for new housing in Antrim. He indicated that the Housing Executive has identified a requirement for 311 new homes in the area between 2024 and 2029, with 690 households currently experiencing housing stress. Stokes described this development as an opportunity to deliver “urgently needed social housing,” characterizing it as a “sustainable and exemplary residential development.”

In response to inquiries regarding waste water management, Stokes assured the committee that the applicant has engaged in extensive discussions with NI Water to ensure a viable solution is achievable. Concerns about parking provision were also addressed, with Stokes confirming that the 36 parking spaces provided would be sufficient for the 39 units planned.

Alderman Tom Campbell raised a question about parking adequacy but was reassured of the project’s accessibility via public transport. Following a proposal by Campbell, seconded by Councillor Robert Foster, the recommendation for part demolition of Castle Mall and the construction of new dwellings was approved unanimously by the committee.

The successful approval marks a significant step towards addressing the housing shortage in Antrim while revitalizing the town centre landscape.