Huntly residents claim victory in flats row

RESIDENTS have welcomed the withdrawal of a planning application to build five-storey flats in an area of Banbridge.

A number of people living in the Huntly Road area had opposed the plans from the outset and have expressed their delight that the 28 apartments will no longer go ahead.

Speaking to the Leader one resident said, “It was with great joy that residents in the Huntly are learned that the final chapter in the long-running battle against a five-story development on the Huntly Road has now closed.

“We feel that this case is a fine example of what can be achieved when local residents and councillors work together for the good of the town,” he added.

Town councillor Junior McCrum, who worked with the Huntly Residents’ Association on the issue, also welcomed the news that plans had been withdrawn.

“I very much want to welcome this decision,” said Mr McCrum. “It is what we have been working for over a lengthy period of time. It was never practical to go ahead with the proposed development of 28 apartments at this site.”

“I and my party colleagues have been making representations on behalf of local residents and I want to commend the Huntley Residents’ Association for their efforts. This is a victory for them and a welcome victory for common sense.”