Alliance hits out at decisionto build 550 homes in Cairnshill

12.00.00am GMT Wed 9th Sep 1998

A former Castlereagh councillor has expressed outrage at the Environment Minister's decision to allow 550 homes to be built in Cairnshill.

And Mrs. Margaret Marshall, who is the chairperson of the Alliance Party's Castlereagh South Association, has called on the Department of the Environment to build a suitable play area in the borough.

Speaking after the announcement from Lord Dubs, the Alliance spokeswoman said:

"I absolutely deplore the DoE's decision to build 550 new homes in the Cairnshill area of Castlereagh - it is an absolute disgrace."

"I attended the public inquiry in 1997 as an objector to the building of more homes and I emphasised the need for a children's play area. And even though I attended the public inquiry, I have to hear of the minister's decision from the media."

"1,500 new homes have already been built in this area and there is not one single play area for the children. However, I also think a public park should be built in the Cairnshill area - not more private dwellings."

"The DoE have always given planning permission without any requirements for open space, cycle tracks and play areas - so why can't they do it in the Cairnshill area."

Meanwhile the former councillor has called on Lord Dubs to build a "much needed" community centre in Cairnshill and urged DoE chiefs to allocate land for the centre "immediately".

ENDS.