The development at Woodside Park will consist of 29 homes and is being undertaken by Ulidia Housing Association.
The Minister said: “This development will be a great boost for mixed housing in the Banbridge area. I congratulate Ulidia Housing Association and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive on their efforts to make this scheme a reality.
“Although considerable political progress has been made in recent times, we still have a society full of sectarianism and alienation. We must strive for a Shared Future where its people are more integrated, and can develop a positive common vision for the future while celebrating their diversity.
“Shared Future schemes, where tenants and owner-occupiers will pledge to share their neighbourhoods in a spirit of co-operation, respect and mutual support, are central to my New Housing Agenda and I hope to see many more such schemes in the future.”
Commenting on the visit, John Gartland Chief Executive of Ulidia Housing said: "We are delighted to take forward this important project which will make a significant contribution to meeting housing need in Loughbrickland. In partnership with the Housing Executive we are currently developing our proposal for the site. Following further community consultation and planning approval we anticipate building work starting early next year.”
During her trip to Banbridge the Minister also visited Spelga Mews, a Fold supported housing scheme for older people with dementia.
Notes to Editors:
- Ulidia began as a lobbying group and it registered as a housing association in 1977. It now has a stock of around 800 units throughout Northern Ireland. Although the Association initially built solely for lone parents it subsequently developed a number of partnership arrangements with other voluntary organisations involved in supported housing such as Women's Aid, the Simon Community, Edward Street Hostel and Craigavon & Banbridge Health and Social Services Trust. Although Ulidia's roots are in the provision of supported housing the Association is now also a major provider of general family housing.
- Established in 1976, the Fold Housing Association has grown to become one of the leading providers of housing and care services, delivered through an independent living model. Nearly 4,200 tenants and residents live in sheltered accommodation, family housing and specialist care schemes across Northern Ireland.
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