Local Councillor raises rural social housing availability concerns
Sinn Féin Councillor Terry Hearty has stated that a housing policy, planning system and funding regime that would deliver a meaningful increase in the number of social and affordable housing in rural areas were essential to help sustain communities, schools and businesses.
The South Armagh Councillor was commenting at a recent full Council meeting with senior officers from the Housing Executive.
The local representative explained, “The issue of housing in rural towns and villages is of huge importance, especially that of social housing availability.
“There has been no new build of social housing in over ten years in the likes of Crossmaglen, Silverbridge, Culloville and Glassdrummond. This will eventually impact on the long term sustainability of our schools, communities and rural business and services.”
He continued, “Housing is key to the sustainability of our rural communities. Non availability of social housing is highly damaging.”
Terry also raised other concerns with the Housing Executive senior management. “The Housing Executive have stated that there is no turnover of two bedroom houses in these areas also.
“If a person is registered as requiring a two bedroom house, they cannot be considered for a three bed room one. This effectively means that they have no chance of being allocated a Housing Executive home.
Councillor Hearty added, “I also discussed the issue of the time scale and work standards involving Housing Executive maintenance delivery.”
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