15/12/2011

Magherafelt Draft Plan Launched

A new planning framework which will boost development and aid economic recovery in the Magherafelt area has been launched by Environment Minister Alex Attwood.

The framework, the Magherafelt Area Plan 2015, has been published following a lengthy public consultation process that included an Independent Examination by the Planning Appeals Commission of objections to the Draft Plan.

There was a delay between 2004 and 2008 in progressing the Draft Plan towards Independent Examination as a result of litigation at that time against the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) – a matter that has subsequently been resolved.

The Plan sets out a policy framework to guide development in Magherafelt District Council area and includes a commitment to sustainable development whilst protecting the natural and man-made heritage. The Department for Regional Development has determined that the Plan is in general conformity with the Regional Development Strategy.

Speaking at the launch of the Plan, Alex Attwood said: "This is a highly significant one for the people of Magherafelt district. This plan will provide greater certainty in the planning process which can only help the overall development of the area and make the town a better place to live, work and invest.

"It will provide a sound basis to facilitate sustainable growth and high quality development in Magherafelt District whilst protecting, and where appropriate, enhancing the natural and man-made environment."

(CD/GK)

Related Northern Ireland Business News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

10 April 2017
Council Consults On First Stage Of Local Development Plan
Belfast City Council is consulting on the first stage of the Local Development Plan (LDP) and the public are being urged to have their say. Once adopted, the LDP will be used to shape the city and inform decision making on planning applications until 2035.
20 January 2017
BCC Seeks Input On Belfast Agenda
Belfast City Council (BCC) is calling for Belfast residents, business owners and students to attend one of four information sessions to hear about plans for the city's development and to voice their views on them.
24 January 2011
Hannahstown 'Villagers' Consult On Development
'Villagers' in part of west Belfast are to have a say on how their area is developed through a special consultation process to draft up a Village Plan.
01 December 2010
'Super Councils' To Make Planning Decisions
News that Northern Ireland's councils will soon be taking full responsibility for drawing up their own development plans and also making the vast majority of planning decisions has been revealed. The move is part of an overall reform of local government, which - despite obvious delays in implementation - "is moving forward apace".
10 May 2002
NI Executive decides on harbour land use
Harland & Wolff have convinced local Ministers to free up 80 acres of former shipbuilding land for a range of developments that will secure a more financially viable future for the company.