Exciting Development: East Belfast Transformed into Social Housing Haven

Exciting Development: East Belfast Transformed into Social Housing Haven

A new social housing apartment block has been approved for East Belfast.

Transformation Details

At the Belfast City Council April meeting of its Planning Committee, elected representatives greenlit an application to convert The Arches Centre, 11-13 Bloomfield Avenue, BT5, into a '100 percent' social housing development. This project will comprise 64 units in total, all falling under the affordable housing category. The conversion will involve repurposing the first and second floors of the building for 39 apartments, extending the second floor to accommodate six apartments, and constructing a new third floor for 19 apartments. An added feature will be the installation of solar panels on the roof, enhancing the project's sustainability aspect.

Urban Planning Insights

Planning officials at City Hall recommended the proposal for approval. The ground floor, currently a retail space housing Wyse Byse, will continue to operate in that capacity. The upper floors, previously Class B1 offices and now vacant, will undergo this remarkable transformation. According to the planning report, the location of the site aligns with the city's development zoning, positioned within the Belfast Urban Area Plan 2001. The developers have ensured that the project maintains harmony with the surrounding area, safeguarding the character and appearance of the district. The proposal includes provisions for dedicated in-curtilage and off-street parking, with adequate on-street parking available in the vicinity.

Community Support

NIHE has expressed support for the social housing initiative, emphasizing its significance. While Ni Water raised objections citing concerns regarding waste-water infrastructure, all other consultees, both statutory and non-statutory, have not opposed the proposal. This extensive redevelopment project promises a beacon of hope for affordable housing in the East Belfast area, with sustainable elements integrated into its design.

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