Havelock House: Social housing plan at site of former UTV HQ

Plans to build 100 new social homes on the site of the former UTV building in Belfast have been announced.

A pre-application notice has been submitted to Belfast City Council with plans for a social housing development at Havelock House on Ormeau Road.

Lotus Property bought the site earlier this year, advised by McConnell Chartered Surveyors.

It plans to create 100 social homes, in partnership with Clanmil Housing Association.

The development would include one, two and three bedroom houses and apartments.

The plans will now be subject to a 12-week community consultation.

Alastair Coulson of Lotus Property said: "The next 12 weeks will be about listening to stakeholders and local communities about these draft plans.

"We look forward to hearing all views and considering them in our plans."

It comes as pressure grows on waiting lists for social housing in Northern Ireland.

Jan Sloan of Clanmil Housing said: "We are currently facing a housing crisis in Northern Ireland with social housing waiting lists at c45,000 - the highest they have been in 10 years - and at Clanmil, we are committed to playing our part in addressing this need."

It is expected that planning will be submitted early next year.