Distribution centre gets the go-ahead

Thomas Burns said that the new centre will ‘lead the way’ for other companies that will create a jobs boost for the area.

Minister Mark Durkan announced DOE Planning approval for the 36,000 square metre storage and distribution centre in Crumlin this week.

The proposal for 11 separate storage and distribution units is to be located on lands southwest of Nutts Corner Roundabout. The applicant Heron Property Ltd applied for planning permission two years ago and it was initially turned down.

Mr Durkan said: “This approval is a boost for business. There is a need for a ready supply of land for key industries to develop and bring forward investment opportunities.

“Planning permission clears the way for the developer to market this strategic site with such accessible transport links to potential investors and interested companies. This decision, like a number I have announced recently, has been turned around quickly and shows once again how the planning system can and is delivering for business.”

Planning consulted with Antrim Borough Council on August 22, 2013 who raised no objections to the proposal.

The application was received by the Department on March 12, 2013. The proposal is for a storage/distribution centre including landscaping, access, parking and infrastructure works at lands SW of Nutts Corner Roundabout.

Mr Burns said, “I am delighted that this distribution centre has finally been given the go ahead.”

“It has taken a long time to get to this point because of much planning wrangling. There seemed to have been an embargo on Nutts Corner which was very much classed as an agricultural farming area.

“This is good news not only for the area but it will create a great jobs boost for the area. There is also potential to create a lot more jobs too.The fact that they have been given planning permission it will lead the way for others.”