Ballymagroarty Announces Urgent Expansion: 162 New Social Homes

UPDATE: Ballymagroarty is set to expand urgently with the proposed development of 162 new social homes, marking a significant step forward in addressing housing needs in the North West. Authorities confirm that both the APEX Housing Association in collaboration with Braidwater Ltd., and the EHA Group have submitted planning applications for large-scale housing initiatives on adjacent sites.

Just announced, these applications follow the 2022 approval for the developments, and they aim to enhance the local community amidst growing demand for social housing. The EHA Group proposes to build 86 houses on land located between Whitehouse Road and O’Nualláin Crescent. Plans include crucial improvements to the Aileach Road/Branch Road roundabout and a new pedestrian crossing, ensuring safer access for residents.

The development site encompasses approximately 3.15 hectares of open fields, hedgerows, and boundary trees, as detailed in a planning, design, and access statement by Gravis Planning. This initiative is poised to transform the landscape of Ballymagroarty, catering to the urgent need for affordable housing.

Adjacent to the EHA proposal, the APEX/Braidwater project aims to deliver a further 76 social homes alongside community parkland. Gravis Planning has also provided a design statement supporting this application, highlighting the commitment to high-quality open spaces, landscaped walkways, and improved accessibility for the future residents.

This expansion will see Ballymagroarty grow north-westward, aligning with ongoing developments in the area, particularly the nearby Cashel development on the ‘H2’ lands, which are also zoned for housing. The urgency of these projects reflects the pressing need for social housing in Derry, especially as the local population continues to grow.

As these developments progress, the local community is encouraged to stay informed and engaged. The planning applications are now under review, and stakeholders are watching closely for updates that will shape the future of housing in Ballymagroarty. Residents and interested parties are advised to follow the latest announcements for further details on this critical housing initiative.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.