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Ritchie launches £7million housing scheme in South Belfast

Tuesday, 18 August 2009

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA today officially cut the first sod to launch 43 new family houses at Roden Street in South Belfast.

The development, by Fold Housing Association, is part of the ongoing regeneration of the wider Donegall Road and Greater Village Area.

The scheme will cost nearly £7million with the Department for Social Development providing £5million through the Housing Executive. The balance of £1.9million will be funded by Fold Housing Association through private financing.

Margaret Ritchie said: “The construction of this latest phase of 43 houses and apartments is a great boost for the area. Good housing is the cornerstone of strong, stable and sustainable neighbourhoods. I am pleased that we have been able to put together a strategy that will help enhance and stimulate the regeneration of the area. Local people can look forward to enjoying their new, modern, energy efficient homes in the near future.

“Fold Housing Association, working alongside the Department for Social Development, the Housing Executive, elected representatives and most importantly, the local community, is to be congratulated for bringing this scheme to fruition.

“Through the New Housing Agenda, I have made the increased supply of housing my first and foremost priority. I am determined to do all I can to help people off the waiting list and these 43 new houses will a valuable contribution to the 1,750 new homes planned for this financial year.”

Construction by Braidwater Construction has just got underway, with completion planned for autumn 2010.

Notes to Editors:

  1. Fold Housing Association is one of 32 housing associations registered with the Department for Social Development, thereby gaining access to Housing Association Grant. It manages some 4,400 homes throughout Northern Ireland in sheltered accommodation, family housing and specialist care schemes.
  2. Construction by Braidwater Construction has just got underway, with completion planned for September 2010.
  3. Media enquiries to Joe Livingston, DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9468 or mobile 07920 187938. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.