Over 400 social homes are to be built in district

Over 400 social homes are to be built in district

20 May 2015

HOUSING Associations have built over 400 new social homes in the Newry, Mourne and Down Council area over the past four years, new figures have revealed.

The figures have been announced by Stormont Social Development Minister Mervyn Storey who said the 416 homes in the council area which have been constructed exceeds 

the delivery target set by the Northern Ireland Executive through the Programme for Government.

Supported by close to £570m investment from the Department for Social Development and working with the Housing Executive, housing associations have exceeded delivery targets by 20%. 

Over the past two years alone,136 social and affordable homes have been delivered in Newry, Mourne and Down Council area at several developments including Hunter’s Close in Ardglass in a development spearheaded by Ark Housing Association.

Cameron Watt, chief executive of the Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Associations, said local housing associations have a strong track record of delivering social and affordable housing for Northern Ireland. 

“I am delighted that with partners our members have not only met the 2014/15 targets but also exceeded pledges from the NI Executive to provide 6,000 new social homes and 2,000 affordable homes over four years,” he said.

“The 2014/15 targets required housing associations to increase by nearly 60% from the previous year the number of new homes started. In achieving this target our sector has demonstrated our commitment to fulfilling a growing role in meeting housing need.”

Mr. Watt said despite the success, “huge challenges remain” but is confident that working closely with partners in government and the Housing Executive, housing associations can continue to deliver many more great homes and help build thriving communities.