A new urban strategy for North East Hamilton was approved by the Senate, although some worries were raised about its impact.

The initiative gives planners much wider flexibility when deciding on the size and height of new buildings in the area of the capital.

Senator Lindsay Simmons, junior home affairs minister, said that the The North East Hamilton Local Plan would boost a part of the island which had witnessed decline.

But OBA senator Robin Tucker, who grew-up in North Hamilton, said that while she broadly welcomed the initiative, she had some concerns.

Ms Tucker said: “I was very happy to see the plan. It checks many of the boxes.

“I am worried that once the plan begins to take shape, and work being done, that there could be unintended consequences of seeing businesses, residents and families who have lived there for generations being displaced.”

Ms Simmons insisted the plan would be a much-needed boost for the area and its existing residents and businesses.

She said: “The North East quadrant of Hamilton is an area with a strong sense of community and culture.

“However, it is also an area which has experienced incremental social, economic and environmental decline to the extent that the character of the area differs from the remainder of the city.

“The area is in need of investment and economic activity that will benefit existing residents and business owners.”

The plan, approved by Senators on Wednesday, is intended to develop the area’s “sustainable economic potential”.

There will be no limits on the height of new structures in the designated area under the initiative, which also provides greater decision-making discretion to the Development Applications Board regarding buildings.