A £20 million social housing development has been approved in Lisburn with a key focus on the protection of a nearby wetland a significant condition for the plans being approved.
The 120 home scheme on the Ballinderry Road was brought forward by Apex Housing Association to the council's planning committee on Monday.
This is the second social housing project signed off by Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) in two months.
Read more: Lisburn housing development approved despite flooding fears.
Ninety houses on the Old Hillsborough Road were approved in November despite fears of a "catastrophic" flooding problem re-occurring. However, a flood water solution will be required before building commences.
LCCC planning department, which currently has no requirement to provide social housing, has now approved over 200 such units in just a matter weeks.
Apex planning consultant, Sam McKee told the planning committee on Monday: "We have engaged with ecologist professionals at the NI Environment Agency over the significant nearby wetlands and we have now put in a management plan for them.
"Even pedestrian access would be detrimental to the area. So the area will be fenced off with only gated access when required to maintain the ecological integrity.
"If Apex can't manage the wetlands themselves then reliable and competent people would be brought in to do so."
The development will also benefit from a playpark being provided much earlier in the scheme - at the 75th house as opposed to the standard 99th house. There will also be triple glazing as a sound proofing from potential traffic noise.
Mr McKee added that a mixture of units will also allow for residents requiring wheelchair use and other "complex needs".
Lisburn North councillor, Jonathan Craig said: "I do welcome these plans for social and affordable housing as it is something that is greatly needed in Lisburn and Castlereagh.
"There are a huge number of people in LCCC looking for social housing.
"This is the second month in a row we have approved a major housing development including a playpark with such good designs that it should even decrease any anti-social behaviour risks.
"I have no doubt Apex will fill this accommodation and quickly."
The vote for the plans received unanimous approval from the committee chamber.
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