University of Ulster challenges multi-storey car park decision

An artist's impression of the university's development plan for its new campus

The University of Ulster is to challenge a decision which prevents it from building a multi-storey car park to serve its new Belfast campus.

In March, the then environment minister Alex Attwood approved a campus development near Belfast city centre.

However, he blocked the car park on Frederick Street after planners said it would have a detrimental impact on neighbouring homes.

The university has now lodged a case with the Planning Appeals Commission.

The university's original application said the 487-space car park scheme, which also included retail space and a new pedestrian crossing, would "contribute to and stimulate the regeneration of north Belfast".

But local residents objected to the size of the development while the Housing Executive said it should not proceed as the area is zoned for social housing in the Belfast Metropolitan Area Plan.

A date for the appeal hearing has yet to be set.