Planning permission has been granted for the building of 740 homes on lands named 'The Cashel' in Derry.
The new homes will be built on land between the Whitehouse Road and Coshquin, commonly referred to as H2, in what will eventually become one of the largest developments in the North West.
The elected members of Derry City and Strabane District Council’s Planning Committee approved the application on June 8.
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The approval allows phase one of the £450 million development by the Bradiwater Group to progress.
It's understood the initial phase alone represents an investment of over £100 million to the city.
Finbarr Grogan, Planning and Technical Director with the Braidwater Group, said the news was "fantastic" for the whole area.
He added: “The Braidwater Group has a proven track record of delivering large scale projects of this scale, and we look forward to delivering a vital, low-carbon project of which we and the people of the Northwest can be proud.”
The development for phase one includes a vibrant mix of social, affordable and private homes.
The plans will also incorporate the delivery of a high street, café, retail units, gym and a community centre.
The Cashel site will aim to be a low-carbon development throughout construction, with over 3,000 trees planted and a substantial hedgerow initiative among the biodiversity measures planned.
The scheme is set to provide a substantial economic boost to the area, with approximately 250 construction jobs and apprenticeships earmarked, while local suppliers and subcontractors will also benefit positively from the works.
A large financial contribution will be made by Braidwater towards the Buncrana Road improvement and widening scheme.
Meanwhile, Barry Kerr, Director of Development at Apex Housing Association, who has been working with Braidwater, said: “Achieving planning for phase one of this development is great news as this will make a significant contribution towards addressing the substantial housing need in the local area.
"Importantly, this project will be developed with a strong emphasis on the environment which is a key priority for our organisation.”
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