Application for new apartments at Galgorm

A planning application has been lodged with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council for 57 new apartments outside Ballymena.

The application has been made by an agent on behalf of David McGroggan, Galgorm Homes Limited.

The proposal is for 57 apartments with car parking on a vacant site opposite Galgorm Industrial Estate between River Maine and west of Fenaghy Road and south of Fenaghy Road/Corbally Road junction, Galgorm. Overall, 15 properties will have one bedroom; 36, two-bedroom, and six, three bedroom.

A design and access statement submitted with the application said the planned residential development will provide a minimum of 20% social and affordable housing. Twenty-one are proposed social housing units.

Block A will comprise social housing. Privately-owned apartments will be located in blocks B and C. Block A will have one and two-bedroom apartments and a two-bedroom wheelchair accessible apartment. Blocks B and C will have a mix of one, two and three-bed apartments.

The residential units have been designed as adaptable accommodation, in accordance with council policy, ensuring accessibility for all residents and the flexibility to respond to changing needs over time, the statement said.

“All apartment sizes have been developed to comply with the General Needs Housing Design Standards for Northern Ireland, ensuring that each dwelling meets recognised space, quality, and functionality requirements consistent with best practice in housing design.

The proposed development has been designed to ensure safe, efficient, and inclusive access for all users,” it explained.

The statement noted: “The surrounding area comprises a mixed pattern of industrial and residential uses.

“To the immediate north, the site adjoins large commercial and industrial operations, including the former Green Pastures Church building, Wrightbus facilities, and Galgorm Meats, all located within the Galgorm Industrial Estate.

“To the south-east lies the Ballymena Business Centre, which accommodates a range of small and medium-sized enterprises. Beyond this, are established residential areas at Fenaghy Heights.”

The statement continued: “The lay-out and form of development have been carefully designed to respond to the site’s setting between the River Maine and Fenaghy Road, respecting existing landscape features, boundary vegetation, and the character of adjacent land uses.” Vehicular access will be provided from Fenaghy Road.

It also said: “The apartments will be arranged to maximise natural light, outlook, and privacy, with associated landscaping and communal amenity areas designed to create a pleasant and attractive living environment.

“The development features a curved building form, which follows the natural alignment of the site and enhances visual interest.

“This form softens the overall massing, improves views across the site and creates a strong architectural identity.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter