A social housing development of nearly 50 units in Newry has won planning permission.
Developer Kelly Brothers, which is based in the city, will now go ahead with the project to build 24 houses and 24 apartments on Carnagat Road.
The planning committee at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council granted planning permission to the development, described as a multi-million pound investment, on Wednesday.
Unusually for apartments, each one will feature own-door access, while the apartment building itself will be split-level.
Planning consultants Turley said there would also be a planting scheme on the development to improve the environment for residents, while shared open spaces would promote outdoor use and exercise.
Councillor Pete Byrne, chairman of Newry Mourne and Down District Council, said: “The approval of this social housing development on the Carnagat Road reflects the council’s commitment to addressing the pressing need for quality social housing in the area.
“I commend the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in bringing this project to fruition and demonstrating what can be achieved through meaningful collaboration and people-centric planning.”
Artist’s impression of Kelly Brothers’ proposed new development in Newry, which has just won planning permission
Liz Kimmins, Newry and Armagh Sinn Fein MLA, added: “The approval of 48 new homes on the Carnagat Road is a significant step forward in tackling the housing crisis facing our community in the Newry area.
“This development will provide much-needed quality homes for families who have been waiting too long on growing housing waiting lists.”
Ronan Kelly, managing director of Kelly Brothers, said: “We are delighted with the council’s decision to approve our application for critically-needed social housing on the Carnagat Road.
“The team at Kelly Brothers are committed to consistently delivering high-quality homes that meet the needs of our communities while adhering to the highest standards of design and sustainability and it is particularly special to be able to do this within our own locality.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the council, local representatives, and the community as we move into the construction phase to ensure the development is completed to the highest standards.”
Building work is due to start later this year, with completion expected in 2027.
Kelly Brothers is also finishing work on 38 social homes at Merchant’s Quay in the city. And it’s also completed work on a new 100,000 sq ft complex for Modern Tyres at Carbane.
The firm is starting construction on a warehouse complex for My Life Bathrooms off the Warrenpoint Road outside Newry.
In September last year, developer Lotus Homes announced plans for a major new housing development at Doran’s Hill in Newry.
The company lodged a Pre-Application Notice (PAN) with the council for the 200-unit development, kicking off a 12-week consultation.