Development of New Apartments in East Belfast Faces Challenges
Plans to build 115 new apartments on a vacant wasteground in east Belfast, currently occupied by a large bonfire, have been delayed due to insufficient wastewater capacity in the area. This issue has become a major obstacle for the proposed development, which was granted planning permission in September 2024. The project includes a number of social housing units, but construction has yet to begin.
Residents in the area have raised safety concerns about the potential damage caused by the bonfire to both individuals and nearby homes. The site is located on London Road, where a massive bonfire is set to be lit as part of the annual Twelfth of July celebrations. This event has drawn attention to the ongoing issues surrounding the land and its use.
The delay in the apartment development is linked to challenges with Northern Ireland Water’s wastewater system. Over recent years, similar issues have affected various developments across the north of the country. The current problem stems from the limited capacity of the foul sewer network in the area, which is not sufficient to support the proposed housing project.
In addition to the wastewater issues, the wasteground has experienced multiple reports of anti-social behaviour. Concerns have also been raised with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service regarding the construction of the bonfire near residential properties. The bonfire, made up of approximately 140 pallets, is expected to be lit alongside others during the upcoming celebrations.
DLL Properties, the owners of the land, have not provided any comment on the development when approached by local media. However, representatives from Northern Ireland Water have stated that they are working closely with the developers to find a solution to the wastewater problem.
A spokesperson for NI Water explained: “The proposed development is in an area where the foul sewer network is constrained due to capacity constraints.” They added that the developer has engaged in the wastewater impact assessment process to address the issue.
“In this case, the developer is undertaking the removal of storm water from the existing NI Water foul/combined sewer to provide capacity for a foul only connection,” the statement continued. This approach aims to ensure that the wastewater system can accommodate the new housing without causing further complications.
The situation highlights the complex interplay between urban development, infrastructure limitations, and community concerns. As the Twelfth of July celebrations approach, the focus remains on balancing the cultural significance of the bonfire with the need for sustainable and safe development in the area.
