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Ritchie launches new housing in west Belfast

Thursday, 26 November 2009

Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie today handed over the keys to 23 new homes for West Belfast.

The Devonshire development, by Ulidia Housing Association, was funded by the Department for Social Development, and incorporates the latest in energy saving, design and security features.

Speaking at the launch of the new homes Minister Ritchie said: “My top priority is to significantly increase the number of social houses being built. When the regeneration of Devonshire is complete, we will see a total of 50 new homes provided in this area of high housing need.”

The new homes at Devonshire have replaced Housing Executive dwellings which were built on the site in the 1960s.

The new homes are the second of three phases in the £7.5million redevelopment of the Devonshire area. Sixteen houses were completed in 2006 and construction of a further 11 houses will start in early 2010.

Minister Ritchie added: “Good housing is the cornerstone of strong, stable and sustainable neighbourhoods. I am pleased that my Department, working alongside Ulidia Housing Association, the Housing Executive and the local community, has been able to bring this latest phase of development to fruition.

“These new homes will continue the provision of high quality, energy efficient homes, built to even more exacting standards than before.”

Notes to editors:

  1. Ulidia Housing Association is one of 32 housing associations registered with the Department for Social Development, giving access to grant funding. Ulidia manages some 900 homes throughout Northern Ireland in supported and family housing schemes.
  2. This 23 unit scheme cost some £4.7million, including acquisition, construction and associated costs. The Department funded £3.6million through Housing Association Grant, with the balance of £1.1million contributed by Ulidia through private financing.
  3. Media enquiries and photograph requests to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9496 or Fearghal O’Reilly on 07920 832279. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.