Ritchie collars former Ben Sherman site for social housing

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie today officially opened a new development of 18 family apartments at Sherman Court in Derry.

The homes, built on the site of the former Ben Sherman shirt factory on the Cityside, have been allocated to families in urgent housing need. The development, completed in November, was purchased by Clanmil Housing for social housing.

Margaret Ritchie said: "Derry has long suffered from high levels of housing stress, with sites close to the city centre difficult to source. The purchase of these properties has meant that 18 families from the waiting list could be offered new homes much sooner than expected.

"My main focus and top priority is to increase the supply of social and affordable housing. This year, the New Housing Agenda will deliver the highest number of new build social houses for over a decade.

"I have seen for myself the difference that good housing can make to the lives of people. That is why I will leave no stone unturned in my desire to address urgent housing need."

Joan Baird, Chair of Clanmil Housing said: "Clanmil Housing is committed to providing high quality affordable homes for rent in areas of high housing need and we have worked in partnership with the developer and local community representatives to successfully deliver these beautiful city centre homes in an area where the demand for social housing is particularly high."

"Although Clanmil is well known in Derry for its Somme Park independent living scheme for older people, Sherman Court is our first major family housing scheme in the City. We are therefore delighted to welcome our new tenants to the scheme and wish them well as they settle into their new homes and community."

Mrs Susan McLaughlin, a tenant at the new Sherman Court development, was pleased to show the Minister around her new home. She said: "I could not believe my luck when I was offered one of these lovely new apartments by Clanmil. It is really modern and bright and in such a great place, so close to the city centre and within walking distance of everything I need."

"It is just over three months since we all moved in and we are settling in really well to our lovely new homes."

Notes to editors:

1. Clanmil Housing is one of 32 housing associations registered with the Department for Social Development, giving access to grant funding for social housing. Clanmil is one of the leading housing associations with a stock of almost 2,300 homes throughout Northern Ireland.
2. The 18 family apartments cost £2.4million to purchase with associated costs. The Department for Social Development, through the Housing Executive, funded £1.7million through Housing Association Grant, with the balance of £0.7million contributed by Clanmil Housing through private financing.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9497 or Simon Stuart on 07920 186 639. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.