The site has been purchased by Apex Housing Association from the private sector landowner, Westco Developments (NI) Limited.

The project, to be delivered by the Northern Irish Executive Office’s Urban Villages Initiative in conjunction with Apex and Meenan Square Developments Ltd, will see the construction of a mixed-use development comprising housing, a community hub, and essential local amenities.

The project will be primarily funded by the Executive Office, supported by Apex and the NI Department for Communities.

Following completion of the site acquisition, the project will be subject to a formal planning application, including full public consultation giving the local community an opportunity to share their views.

Denis McMahon, permanent secretary of the NI Executive Office, called the deal “a significant step towards the transformation and much-needed renewal of the site, which will bring real benefits to the local community through the creation of a shared community hub, improved access to essential services and the provision of social and affordable housing.”

It is anticipated that the project will commence on site by Autumn 2024.