Residents invited to have their say on plans for new homes in Rathcoole

Apex Housing Association are bringing forward plans to regenerate the former post-primary school site to provide new social and affordable homes for the estate and a children’s play space.

The proposals seek to deliver approximately 110 high-quality new social homes including houses, apartments and bungalows.

Providing accommodation for general needs, complex needs and active elderly applicants on the social housing waiting list and a small number of affordable homes (around nine per cent).

Earlier this month the Times reported how updated plans for the new housing development include a higher number of social homes than previously stated.

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Commenting on the consultation process, a spokesperson for Apex said: “In light of the current situation and Covid-19 social distancing measures, new regulations have been introduced to help you provide feedback on our proposals.

“We will be using online tools as well as remote feedback channels to gather your comments on our plans.”

Macedon UUP Cllr Robert Foster has urged residents to have their say on the proposals.

In a statement issued to the Times, Cllr Foster said: “I would encourage everyone to look at the proposals and voice their opinions.

“These consultations are designed to hear the views of local people on what is a once in a lifetime development on this site. Personally, I believe there should be more four-bedroom houses on the development and I will be submitting this view through the consultation.”

The consultation website (www.rathcooledevelopment.co.uk) went live on November 25 and webinars (online presentations) are proposed to take place on December 2, 10am-11am and 6pm-7pm.

A set of banner displays will be available for public viewing in the Dunanney Centre.

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