Extra apartments approved for social housing development in West Belfast

Belfast Planning Committee approved a 77-unit social housing scheme at the former Belfast Metropolitan College site on Whiterock Road, with 15 additional apartments created by reconfiguring part of the plan.

Belfast Planning Committee unanimously approved a 77-unit social housing development at the former Belfast Metropolitan College campus on Whiterock Road. The proposal includes 26 semi-detached houses, 51 apartments, a children's centre, new car parking, a substation, landscaping and open space. The application was made by Newpark Developments Ltd. The approval on February 17 follows a similar consent from December 2024, with the main change creating extra apartments through amalgamation. Key details: - The scheme totals 77 units made up of 26 semi-detached houses and 51 apartments. - The decision was taken unanimously by the Belfast Planning Committee on February 17. - The main change from the earlier approval is the amalgamation of an apartment block and the children's centre, resulting in 15 additional apartments. - The site is a former school and college; one building formerly housed the Whiterock Children's Centre and another housed a boxing club, and demolition work is under way. - Statutory and non-statutory consultees supported the proposal and the council received no third-party representations; council officers recommended approval. - The council planning report states the site is within settlement limits, described as suitable for housing, and noted access to public transport and on-site parking. Summary: The approval increases planned social housing supply on Whiterock Road and repurposes previously developed land for residential use. The council report described the proposal as compatible with the area and noted its sustainable location and parking provision. Undetermined at this time.