Councillors back plans for 750 new Londonderry homes

Proposals to build almost 750 new homes in Londonderry have been approved by Derry City and Strabane District Council's planning committee.

Planning permission was granted for a 480 home development on the Upper Galliagh Road at a meeting on Thursday.

Councillors also approved a reserved matters application for 259 homes and a new community centre on Springtown Road.

SDLP councillor John Boyle, who chairs the planning committee, said the applications – both submitted by Apex Housing Association - represent "a major investment in our city".

"These developments will not only provide much-needed homes for hundreds of families, but will also help support sustainable, balanced growth across our city," Boyle added.

The development at Upper Galliagh Road – where the first phase of development has seen 262 homes already built and occupied - will include around 340 detached, semi-detached and terraced houses, as well as around 140 apartments.

It also includes seven retail units, three office blocks, allotments and a multi use games area.

At Springtown Road, the development also include a new community centre and child's play area as well as upgrades to the road infrastructure at its junction with Hawthorne Drive.

Apex chief executive Sheena McCallion said the developments are testament to their commitment to delivering "high-quality homes in sustainable locations".

"By combining new homes with green space, community facilities and neighbourhood services, we are helping to create places where people can put down roots, raise families and build strong communities for the future," she said.

McCallion said housing is one Northern Ireland's biggest challenges and is especially challenging in the north west region, where "demand continues to outpace supply".