Â£5.2m housing project announced for Ballyclare

Paul Givan pictured with David Reade, President of Ballyclare Chamber of Commerce; Michael McDonnell, Chief Executive of Choice Housing; Hazel Bell, Chair of Choice Housing; Stephen McCarthy, representing Steve Aiken MLA; and Cllr Vera McWilliam, Chair of the Ballyclare Town Team. INNT 46-816CON

The development will provide 39 new homes for active older people and space for a social enterprise when it is completed in August 2018.

Located on the site of a former department store, the scheme is funded by an investment of £3.2m from the Northern Ireland Executive with a further £2m being provided by Choice Housing Association through private finance.

Announcing the new scheme, Communities Minister Paul Givan MLA said: “This year the NI Executive, through the Department for Communities, will deliver 1,600 homes for the people of Northern Ireland. This programme aims to provide housing to meet the needs of many in our society – from families with young children to our older population. This scheme at The Square will help meet the demand in this area for accommodation for the active elderly and provide 39 homes for people on the social housing waiting list.

“With being located in the town centre and being close to the local amenities, this new development will enable the residents to live independently and play a central role in the local community.”

Michael McDonnell, Chief Executive of Choice Housing added: “This is an exciting development that will provide 39 new homes for older people in Ballyclare, enabling them to remain active within the local community. These energy-efficient, accessible and adaptable homes are designed to meet the needs of older people. The first tenants will start moving into their new homes next year and we look forward to officially opening the full scheme in 2018.

“There are many demands for housing in today’s society and it is important that we get more homes underway. In Choice, we have an extensive new-build programme in place and are determined to do what we can to meet considerable need. We’re working in close partnership with local communities to deliver ambitious targets and meaningful change.”

Welcoming the development, Cllr Vera McWilliam said: “These new homes will be a welcome addition to the town. The site is in a good location, with good access to local amenities. I look forward to seeing the project nearing completion.”