Written question asked by Lord McCrea of Magherafelt and Cookstown (Democratic Unionist Party) on Thursday, 11 May 2006, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 15 May 2006. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Wednesday, 17 May 2006 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Global Point Newtownabbey

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he expects to announce commencement of work on Global Point Newtownabbey.

Answer: The announcement of commencement of work at Global Point is dependent on the findings of the Public Inquiry into the draft Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan (BMAP). The Plan is a material consideration in determining current planning applications for Global Point. No decision has yet been reached in respect of the proposals.The Department of the Environment has formally written to the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) requesting a Public Inquiry into BMAP. Following acceptance of the request the organisational arrangements for the Public Inquiry will become the responsibility of the PAC.

Secondary information