WORK to repair a number of Housing Executive flats in Newcastle damaged in a suspected arson attack at the start of the month is scheduled to get underway in the New Year.
A wheelie bin is believed to have been set on fire and pushed against oil tanks adjacent to flats at Bracken Avenue in an incident which followed a number of similar arson attacks at this part of the resort last year.
News that repair work is due to start towards the end of January has been confirmed by Newcastle councillor Willie Clarke who met recently with senior Housing Executive officials.
He said it is important repair work starts as soon as possible, explaining four homes were destroyed in the most recent incident and the homes of 10 tenants were destroyed in the 2015 arson attack.
“It is important the rebuild is completed as quickly as possible,” said councillor Clarke.”The loss of these properties increases the pressure on social housing availability in the Newcastle area where there are over 250 people in urgent need of social housing.
“The need for quality, affordable housing is essential for the well-being of our citizens. Every day, Sinn Fein’s party offices are inundated by families requesting assistance to avail of social housing.”
Councillor Clarke confirmed that in an effort to deter further arson attacks, steel home heating oil tanks will be installed at Bracken Avenue. He said he hopes this will improve the safety of all residents in the area.
The Mournes councillor added: “I appreciate the Housing Executive has complex issues to deal with in relation to this new build following the arson attacks, but residents are frustrated that this fire damaged shell, is a blight on the entire community. I hope the Executive sticks to its timeline with repair work starting in late January.”