Green light for major housing development in Derry

A plan to build almost 800 new homes in Derry was given the go-ahead today.

The proposed development in the Drumahoe area is the first of four major new residential projects envisaged for the city.

Stormont Environment Minister Sammy Wilson, who granted planning permission for 770 new homes, said his announcement was also good news for local builders.

“This is exciting news for the city of Londonderry but it is also a major boost for the construction industry in the north west at a time of economic downturn,” he said.

“The approval of this development is another example of how developers and agents working closely with the Planning Service and other public bodies on their applications can smooth the planning process to the benefit of all concerned.”

The scale of the Drumahoe development was such that it warranted the introduction of an Article 40 legal agreement to deliver open space areas and an internal public transport network, which interlinks and flows through the 35 hectare project.

Its layout provides a village green with tree-lined avenues and play areas for children.

Meanwhile, Mr Wilson today also launched a free advice scheme to help long distance lorry drivers cut fuel use and emissions.

The Freight Best Practice programme will provide efficiency tips to freight operators.

“This £120,000 (€127,706) investment will ensure Northern Ireland hauliers have access to the latest industry best practice, enabling them to save money for their businesses,” the minister said as he unveiled the scheme in Mallusk.

“The new service will offer freight transport companies free advice on a range of issues from operational efficiency to saving fuel, developing skills, equipment and systems and performance management.”