Test for social and affordable housing underway in Ballyhalbert.
Demand for social and affordable housing in Ballyhalbert and the areas surrounding the County Down village is currently being tested by the Housing Executive.
Running until Friday, June 6, a Rural Housing Needs Test is examining housing demand in the area and local people’s views are being sought.
Those wishing to register an interest in a home in the locality are being asked to call us on:
02895 982502,
email: rural.housing@nihe.gov.uk
or visit the Housing Executive website at:
Housing Executive Rural and Regeneration Manager, Sinead Collins, said: “This Rural Housing Needs Tests gives an opportunity for people in Ballyhalbert to be consulted about their housing requirements and get advice on housing options.
“Previously, we have had success with tests we carried out in the wider County Down area, some of which have resulted in new build schemes.
“If we find there is demand for new homes, then we can engage with a housing association to examine the potential for a new-build housing scheme in the area.
“Quite often, especially when we have very few social homes in an area, people don’t see the value of coming forward to put their name on the waiting list.
“But we use the local waiting list to determine housing need and to support housing associations in developing new homes so it’s vitally important that people tell us there is a demand.”
Owen Brady, Ards and North Down Area Manager for the Housing Executive, wants local people to express an interest if they would like to live in a social home in the Ballyhalbert area.
He said; “This exercise will help us to determine the need for new housing in Ballyhalbert. I would encourage interested people to participate and engage in the ongoing consultation.
“While the Rural & Regeneration Unit examines the potential for new housing, you will still be considered for any housing that might become available in your current areas of choice, if you are already registered with us or a housing association.
“We would like to encourage people who are interested in living within the Ballyhalbert area to contact the Rural and Regeneration Unit by phone or email,” said Mrs Collins.
