A bin set on fire in a communal stairwell at the NI Housing Executive’s McLaughlin House in Downpatrick caused substantial damage at the end of May, but thanks to the work of the organisation’s team and contractors the tenants were all back in their homes six weeks later.
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ured are the Housing Executive’s Maintenance Officer, Damian Fitzsimons, and McLaughlin House residents James and Susan Trainor with Michael McKinney, second right, who was delighted to receive the key of his newly refurbished home from the Housing Executive’s Area Maintenance Manager, Colm Brennan.[/caption]
The Housing Executive spent approximately £15,000 on the repairs to the block of six apartments. All McLaughlin House tenants had to move out at some stage during the refurbishment with an average three weeks each.
The majority were able to stay with family and friends but the Housing Executive provided temporary accommodation locally for Mr & Mrs Trainor for the two weeks when work was carried out.
James and Susan Trainor have lived in McLaughlin House for over 50 years and were understandably highly distressed by what happened. However, the swift action and care of the NIHE helped during what was a challenging time.
Mr Trainor commented: “We are very impressed with the service received from the Housing Executive and are delighted with the high standard of the work and how quickly it was completed.”
Their neighbour, Michael McKinney, was one of the worst affected by the fire. He was also pleased to return to his home now that all the work is completed. He said: “I was very upset by what happened. But the concern shown by the Housing Executive team and their contractors was terrific and I’d like to thank them for getting us all back into our homes so quickly.”
The Housing Executive’s local Maintenance Manager, Colm Brennan, was delighted with the feedback and added: “When such a fire happens it is upsetting for all. The co-operation and flexibility of our tenants during the refurbishment was much appreciated by the team.
“We are so pleased with the positive comments from all of the tenants about us and the standard of the refurbishment by ESE. On behalf of all involved we wish our tenants well as they return home.”
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