Construction work starts on new social houses

Construction work starts on new social houses

1 August 2018

WORK has started on a scheme to provide almost 20 new social homes in Crossgar.

Clanmill Housing is redeveloping a derelict site at Downpatrick Street to provide six new homes and 13 apartments to help meet the increasing need for public housing at this part of the district.

It is understood the new homes will feature high spec energy efficiency measures to make them affordable to run for the families who will live in them.

The start on the eagerly-awaited scheme has been welcomed by South Down MLA Colin McGrath, Rowallane councillor Terry Andrews and the area’s former MP, Margaret Ritchie.

Mr McGrath said he was “delighted” construction work is underway, explaining he has been inundated with requests from people who want to set up home in Crossgar.

“Local people want to remain in their own area. However, as we all know, securing a social housing tenancy can be difficult and being local doesn’t allow for additional points for those on the waiting list which I feel is unfair,” he said.

“People have a sense of community and want to remain close to family and friends for a variety of reasons. I hope that by the time allocations are made, those who have been waiting on their dream house within Crossgar will be allocated a home.”

Cllr Andrews believes the scheme will benefit the wider community by providing local construction jobs.

He said those on the waiting list often struggled to find suitable accommodation in their area of choice and hoped those from the Crossgar area on the list will be allocated homes in the village.

“This scheme will rid the village of a derelict site which is really good news and deliver modern homes in what is an area of high demand,” he added. 

Miss Ritchie, who was involved in discussions to redevelop the Downpatrick Street site for several years, is also delighted work on the much-needed scheme is underway.

“This particular project will provide much-needed homes in an area of housing need,” she said. “Furthermore, this new housing project will restore the street housing line in Downpatrick Street, contributing to the environmental regeneration of this area.” 

Miss Ritchie added: “Thanks must go to Clanmil Housing Association chief executive and officials of for all their hard work on developing this much needed housing scheme in Crossgar.”