Ritchie opens first social housing scheme in Mayobridge for 13 years

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA, today handed over keys to residents in the new £1.4million housing scheme in Mayobridge.

This is the first time social housing has been built in the area since 1996 and reflects the Minister’s commitment to providing housing in rural areas.

The development at Lisbane Park, has been provided by Rural Housing Association and comprises eight new three and five bedroom family houses. The properties incorporate the very latest in energy saving, design and security features, including roof solar panels to cut down on heating costs.

The Minister in handing over the keys to first tenants Tanya McAvoy and Bernadette Rafferty said: “This is a boost for people in Mayobridge. Rural dwellers are very attached to their local area. This new family accommodation means that local people with young families and aspirations for the future can stay local and help maintain and sustain this growing community. Rural Housing Association and the Housing Executive are to be commended for their ongoing commitment to rural development.

“Through the New Housing Agenda, I have made it very clear that the provision of more social and affordable housing is my first and foremost priority, so I am pleased to deliver houses here that were clearly needed.”

Notes to editors

1. This eight unit scheme cost £1.4million, including land, construction costs and associated on costs. The Department for Social Development funded £1.0million through the Housing Executive, with the balance of £0.4million contributed by Rural Housing Association through private financing.

2. Rural Housing Association is one of 32 housing associations registered with the Department of Social Development, thereby gaining access to Housing Association Grant. It manages almost 400 family houses at over 50 locations throughout Northern Ireland.

3. Media enquiries to Joe Livingston DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9468 or 07980 187938. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned