Concern over growing housing demand

Concern over growing housing demand

17 April 2024

AN urgent action plan and ambitious vision is required to meet the growing demand for homes across South Down, the constituency’s MP has warned.

Mr Chris Hazzard has asked the Stormont communities minister, Gordon Lyons, to work with Newry, Mourne and Down Council and the various housing bodies in addressing the growing need throughout the county. 

Following a meeting with Housing Executive officials in Downpatrick, the MP said it was clear that local housing need is growing fast, and the current level of supply is not fit for purpose. 

“From Downpatrick to Warrenpoint, throughout the Mournes, and in our coastal towns and villages like Newcastle, Dundrum, and Rostrevor, there is increasing demand for affordable homes,” he said.

“With the local council responsible now for 40% of rural housing need, our local planning department and strategic development plans must be utilised in the interest of delivering homes.”

Mr Hazzard said that as part of Sinn Féin’s housing plan — which sees the biggest shake up of the housing system in over 50 years — the Housing Executive has regained powers to start building.

He added: “It is vital that Stormont departments, local Council, and the various housing bodies work in partnership with the local community to get new homes delivered as soon as possible.”

Last year, almost £38m was invested in new social housing schemes across the council area with work on just over 630 new homes by various housing associations underway.

And while investment in new homes continues, a huge number of people across the council area remain on the waiting list for a new home, with the gap between housing demand and supply continuing to widen.

At the end of March last year, 3,133 people were on the waiting list, with almost 75% of them classed in the urgent need category, with 348 homes allocated to applicants. 

The Housing Executive said it recognises the importance of continued partnership with councils and the housing sector to find solutions, with the organisation remaining fully committed to the objectives set out in its Housing Investment Plan.