Planning application submitted for 57 new apartments outside Ballymena

Site location highlighted in red for proposed 57 apartment development in Galgorm, Ballymena

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

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

The proposal seeks permission for 57 apartments with associated car parking on a vacant site opposite Galgorm Industrial Estate, located between the River Maine and land west of Fenaghy Road, to the south of the Fenaghy Road/Corbally Road junction in Galgorm.

Overall, 15 of the apartments will have one bedroom, 36 will be two-bedroom units, and six will have three bedrooms.

Site layout plan for proposed 57 apartment development in Galgorm, Ballymena

A design and access statement submitted with the application states that the proposed residential development will provide a minimum of 20 per cent social and affordable housing, with 21 social housing units proposed.

Block A will comprise social housing, while privately owned apartments will be located within Blocks B and C. Block A will include one- and two-bedroom apartments, as well as a two-bedroom wheelchair-accessible unit. Blocks B and C will contain a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.

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

“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 statement said.

CGI showing elevations and finishings of proposed 57 apartment development in Galgorm, Ballymena

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

The statement noted that 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,” it said.

“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 layout 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 to the site will be provided from Fenaghy Road.

It added: “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.”