New housing plans for Antrim Technology Park?
Some trees have already been removed
THE owners of Antrim Technology Park have filed a pre-application notice for housing at the site.
Portbannis Ltd intends to propose outline application for ‘erection of a residential development with associated access, infrastructure and landscaping’.
The plans fall under the major development category and the applicant has given 12 weeks’ notice to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council that an application for planning permission is to be submitted. The applicant must also consult the community in advance of submitting a major development planning application.
An application must be accompanied by a report, outlining the consultation that has been undertaken and how it has influenced the submitted proposal.
The news comes amid growing concern about the amount of vegetation being removed from the site.
One local resident has emailed councillors with their concerns.
They told the Antrim Guardian: “I am by no means someone who would class themselves as an environmentalist and fully understand the business needs but what is happening in the technology park in Antrim is of concern.”
Elected reps have been urged to act on ‘the removal of mature trees, hedgerows, and natural undergrowth’
“What was once a well-established green oasis—valued by the local community for walks, recreation, and vital urban wildlife—is being stripped of its natural vegetation.” said the Guardian reader.
After being advertised for sale last year at £5.5m, the Technology Park has now been re-branded as Confluence. A new website said: “Set within 70 acres of mature landscape in Antrim, Confluence brings together workspace, enterprise and nature in one connected environment. It is a place where businesses can grow, supported by a setting designed for modern working.
“Buildings across the park are being improved and modernised to create a professional environment for a diverse mix of companies, with quality buildings, well-maintained grounds, generous parking and excellent access supporting efficient, confident operation.”
However many areas of mature planting in pictures shown on the website have now been removed.
The Antrim Guardian contacted Portbannis Ltd for comment back in March about the concerns and have again reached out for a response. See more in the paper next week.