NEWS
Belfast City Council has granted planning permission to add new recreational facilities to the Student Roost student accommodation development located on Nelson Street near the Ulster University’s Belfast campus. Previous approval was granted in 2017 for 774- bed student accommodation on Nelson Street, and work has begun on the site. The revised proposals signal an increased investment in new recreational facilities within the courtyard and ground floor, whilst retaining the existing 774-bed student accommodation building. The plans were submitted by major UK student accommodation operator, Student Roost. The new planning approval grants permission for the inclusion of new sports and recreation facilities, with activity areas that will include a games hall, wellness room and VR sports room. Smaller activity zones and breakout spaces will also be integrated into the new design to encourage active socialising. Student Roost will own and operate Nelson Street, which is planned to open ahead of the 2024/25 academic year. www.studentroost.co.uk/locations/belfast STUDENT ROOST RECREATIONAL PLANS ARE APPROVED
(L-R): Stephen Quinn, McGreevy Construction with Alastair McCaw, Choice Housing, Choice Group Chief Executive Michael McDonnell and Peter Byrne from MHS Architects.
CHOICE HOUSING ANNOUNCE £20M NEW HOMES INVESTMENT IN CARRICKFERGUS
Choice Housing has announced plans to deliver 146 new homes in Carrickfergus. The scheme is accessed off Minorca Drive and was home to the former Courtaulds textiles factory site in town. The development will also provide a public open space, landscaping and a children’s play area and is expected to be completed by March 2025. The project will include a mix of accommodation to meet the growing and diverse needs of local residents. This will include a range of 2-,3- and 4-bedroom houses with a number of these properties to be wheelchair
accessible. Choice Group Chief Executive, Michael McDonnell said, “…this latest investment of £20m further demonstrates our commitment to addressing the growing need for quality affordable housing in Carrickfergus.” Choice is working in partnership with local South Down Developer McGreevy Construction Ltd to deliver the design and build. Sean McGreevy from McGreevy Construction added, “This is a significant housing project for the Carrickfergus area which, following consultation with the local community, will be a welcome addition.” www.choice-housing.org
NRC GRADUATE EAGER TO MAKE HIS MARK ON FAMILY BUSINESS
Draperstown construction student James Flanagan has graduated from Northern Regional College. James, who studied a Foundation Degree in Construction Engineering with Surveying for three years after completing a Level 2 and Level 3 in Joinery before completing his Foundation Degree at the College, plans to go into the world of work “to really use the skills” he has gained during his studies. He explained, “If I wanted, I could decide to go to university in September, however I feel the course I have just completed has
equipped me well for the job I have now. It is good to know that that option is there for me if I feel differently in the future. “I currently work alongside my father in the family business – GF Joinery – and I enjoy working there a lot. I can work both in the office or being out on site.” When reflecting on his time at Northern Regional College, James noted the support he received from his lecturers, including Chris Keating. “Chris made learning easy. Whatever problems we faced, he was always ready and happy to help.” www.nrc.ac.uk
James Flanagan, pictured with his family, has graduated from a Foundation Degree in Construction at Northern Regional College.
www.northernbuilder.co.uk
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