Limavady Borough: Greysteel

Greysteel is situated on the main A2 coast road between Limavady and Londonderry over-looking Lough Foyle. The village has experienced considerable growth throughout the Post War period, mostly through new public sector housing up to the 1970s, and subsequently through considerable private housing development. Its popularity as a place in which to live can be attributed partly to its convenient location between the main hubs of Londonderry 14 kilometres to the west, and Limavady 11 kilometres to the east.

Located on the Northern Transport Corridor, the village is adequately served in terms of public transport. The City of Derry Airport is located just 4 kilometres to the west.

Until relatively recently, Greysteel had limited local facilities, with only a modest sized general shop, a few other retail units, a primary school, a Gaelic club with playing fields and several public houses. This situation has been greatly improved however, with the recent construction of the Vale Centre, which includes a range of commercial/industrial units and playing fields.

The population of Greysteel was 1,224 at 2001, an increase of almost 20% compared to 1991. Greysteel is accordingly designated a Large Village in the Settlement Hierarchy in Volume 1 of the Plan.

The development limit will consolidate the existing settlement form and prevent further east-west sprawl. Future development will be restricted to the southern, inland side of the A2, thereby protecting the open seaward aspect towards Lough Foyle.