The Most Reverend Noel Treanor, Bishop of Down and Connor and Chairman of the Down and Connor Diocesan Trust welcomed the announcement today that the Glenmona site, owned by the Diocesan Trust has been placed on the market for sale. The lands comprise approximately 85 acres and are situated between Glen Road and Upper Springfield Road and adjacent to the Monagh Bypass. It was formerly home to St Patrick’s training school, and is surrounded by large areas of agricultural land. Almost 75 acres are being offered to the market.

A spokesperson for the Diocese stated:

“The Diocesan Trust is now in a position to dispose of this substantial site for the wider benefit of the local community. The development of the lands will provide much needed housing, including social housing and potential for increased employment in the area.”

The site which has outline planning approval for a major mixed–use development scheme includes provision for Care Home facilities for young people and youth services. (www.glenmonabelfast.com) It offers a unique opportunity for high profile regeneration of the area and to deliver residential development, both private and social with supporting amenities.  It will also allow for improved access to the surrounding area and facilitate the development of the “Glen 10” project. Also, approximately ten acres of land is being retained by the Diocese for possible future educational use.

Brian Turtle of OKT, selling agents said:

“O’Connor, Kennedy, Turtle are delighted to be entrusted by the Diocese with the sale of this strategic site. It is without doubt one of the most exciting development opportunities within greater Belfast to come to the market this decade, and we expect a high level of interest.”

The Diocese confirmed that the funds realised from the sale would be used to help provide for the ongoing spiritual and pastoral needs of the people of the Diocese of Down and Connor.