The continuing strength of the Belfast suburban residential development market was reflected in the sale at auction of 11 acres of land at Glengormley in the north of the city for £3.45 million sterling.

Douglas Wheeler, of agents Lambert Smith Hampton, said there was strong interest in the land, in two sites, all from local builders. Bidding started at £2 million at the auction on June 29th and six bidders competed up to the sale price.

Meanwhile, Belfast agents Brown McConnell Clark are quoting £1.3 million for a one-acre site with outline permission for 14 apartments on the Old Holywood Road in east Belfast.

The site contains a large gentleman's residence known as Motelands which has been sub-divided into 10 apartments let on short-term leases. Frazer Hood, of Brown McConnell Clark, said the site offers the opportunity for new development on the land and re-conversion of the listed house.