Council enforcement officers are to investigate reports of wildlife habitat being destroyed on 'protected lands'.
Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council (LCCC) has confirmed it will look into the claims after environmental fears were raised in chambers.
Castlereagh East councillors took to the floor this week to express concerns that natural habitat was being harmed in the Dundonald area.
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DUP rep, John Laverty said: "I have been notified by a number of residents about a portion of land that is deemed protected between Millmount Lane, Dundonald and Old Mill Grove. It is a significant piece of land and has been proposed recently for development.
"Because it has protected status. There has been ongoing work to clear the hedgerows and trees and we are trying to find out who authorised for that work to be carried out and who actually owns that land. And who gave permission for work to commence.
"I am asking the director if it is possible to report back to the elected members to provide the information and to also give clarification that an enforcement officer will be sent out to look at this and to enquire why the work has commenced without any consultation with residents in the area."
The LDRS understands that there is no live planning application for the lands.
Alliance Alderman, Martin Gregg added: "I have emailed enforcement already, to ask them to get involved. I think the applicant who put in the application in the first place, I hear that Cllr Laverty has been told who that was and it seems they have employed somebody to go ahead with some preparatory works.
"So, that work as we know is done at risk if it is done without any permission. There are some special habitats in that area that are being destroyed. Trees are taken down, bushes and wildlife are being disturbed.
"So, should anything come of this, then it really is going to be the onus on the person who is doing this to put it back to the way it was before."
Regeneration director, Donal Rogan responded: "I can confirm that we did receive a report of works on the land that Cllr Laverty has raised with us.
"I have given assurances that officers will be out at the site. We have done assessments on the files and we will inform those concerned on what is and is not permitted on the site and will be addressing that."
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