At a meeting of LCCC’s Planning Committee today (Monday 13th April 2026), planning approval was granted which will see approximately £60m invested in a major new education development within the council area.
Planning was approved for the redevelopment of the existing Fort Hill site in Lisburn, delivering a new integrated campus comprising Fort Hill Integrated College, Fort Hill Integrated Primary School and a nursery unit. The development will provide modern, high-quality educational facilities to support pupils from nursery through to post-primary level.
The project represents a significant investment in shared and integrated education and will accommodate up to 850 post-primary pupils, alongside a primary school and nursery provision, including facilities for children with Special Educational Needs.
The development is expected to create approximately 120 jobs during the construction and fit-out phase, providing a boost to the local economy.
Councillor Gretta Thompson, who presided over the Planning Committee meeting, said: “I welcome the approval of this important education development which will deliver modern, high-quality facilities for pupils of all ages, supporting integrated education within the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. This investment represents a positive step forward for the local community and I would like to acknowledge the work of all those involved in bringing this application forward.”
Alderman James Tinsley, Planning Committee Chair said: “I welcome the approval for this significant education development which will provide state of the art facilities for pupils and staff, while supporting the continued growth of communities across the Lisburn & Castlereagh area. I would like to give thanks for the work of the council officers, agents and statutory agencies which allowed this application to proceed in an efficient and timely manner.”
Subject to planning conditions, this development aligns strongly with LCCC’s Local Development Plan, supporting sustainable development and investment in essential infrastructure, while promoting high-quality design and creating an environment that enhances learning and community wellbeing.