Demand for social and affordable housing in Markethill and surrounding areas is currently being tested by the Housing Executive.
Running until Wednesday, March 31, a Rural Housing Needs Test is examining housing demand in the area and local people’s views are being sought.
Housing Executive Rural and Regeneration Manager, Sinead Collins, said; “This Rural Housing Needs Tests gives an opportunity for people in Markethill to be consulted about their housing requirements and get advice on housing options.
“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.”
Mark Ingham, the Housing Executive’s South Area Manager, wants local people to express an interest if they want to live in a social home.
He said: “This exercise will help us to determine the need for new housing in Markethill and surrounding areas. I would encourage interested local residents 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.
“Due to Covid-19 we are delivering most of our services remotely, therefore we are encouraging our tenants to contact us by phone, online, or through our tenant portal.”
Those wishing to register an interest in a home in the locality are being asked to call us 02895 982502, email: rural.housing@nihe.gov.uk or visit our website at nihe.gov.uk.
