Greenisland lies 4km to the south west of Carrickfergus, north east of Jordanstown and between the two main traffic routes, the Shore Road (A2) and the Upper Greenisland Road (B90). The settlement developed rapidly after the introduction of the rail network in the nineteenth century. Its position at an important railway junction on the Belfast to Ballymena railway line contributed to significant public and private house building rates during the 1960’s.

In 2001 the population of the Town was 5,048, a fall from the 1972 figure of 5,638. Greenisland is a popular residential location due to its attractive setting on the Lough Shore and its proximity to Belfast. It is a dormitory commuter settlement for Belfast, with a small focus of local retail activity in the small shopping parade at Glassillan Court complemented by a number of local shops dispersed throughout the settlement.


Regional Policy Context

The RDS recognises the unique characteristics of various individual communities such as Greenisland and identifies that their particular characteristics and local needs should be catered for. It acknowledges that each community has a complimentary role in adding value to the life and vitality of the Belfast Metropolitan Area as a whole. The RDS seeks to build on the strengths of individual communities such as Greenisland and develop a Metropolitan Area, which is attractive to live in, providing a dynamic commercial and cultural heart to the region.

Designation GD 01  Settlement Development Limit                                   Greenislandex
	A Settlement Development Limit is designated for Greenisland as identified on Map No. 4a - Greenisland.

The Settlement Development Limit is designated to exclude the higher prominent ridge to the north and north east of the settlement, the lower slopes of the Knockagh Escarpment (which are designated as an Area of High Scenic Value) and the Rural Landscape Wedge between Greenisland and Jordanstown.

It also takes account of committed housing land, maximisation of land within the urban footprint and the role of the settlement whilst protecting its natural coastal setting.