Controversial shop plans go to appeal

In what is considered an unusual move, the PAC has decided to hold a single hearing for the two, unconnected applications due to the similarity in nature and close proximity to each other in terms of location.

The first is for a retail development, petrol filling station and associated works on land to the east of McKinstry Road and to the north of the Queensway roundabout by Castle Glen Development Company Ltd.

The second is for an 8,000 sq metre food superstore on lands between the Magheralave Road and the North Feeder Road.

Both applications were met with fierce opposition from local residents when they were first submitted, with hundreds of people signing petitions against the developments.

Lagan Valley MLA Jonathan Craig said he would continue his opposition to both plans.

The hearing by the Planning Appeals Commission will open at 10am on Monday January 9, 2012 at Park House in Belfast. There will also be a pre-hearing meeting next month to outline arrangements for the hearing and to deal with procedural queries.

Mr Craig said he would be attending the hearing to voice his objection to the schemes and would be ensuring that Lisburn City Council, who strongly opposed both applications, also had legal representation at the hearing in January.

“This is the only time that I have ever heard of a planning application appeal not being taken on its own,” said Mr Craig, “although it is important that the combined impact of both applications is taken into account.

“These applications would have a major impact on the city centre shopping area and also on the residential environment in the area.

“I believe there is little or no chance of planning permission being granted due to the impact of the developments but I will be ensuring that opposition to the applications is voiced at the hearing.”

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