Northern Ireland Communities minister Lyons urges take-up of Cladding Safety Scheme to protect residents

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons is encouraging applications to the Cladding Safety Scheme to improve the fire safety of high-rise residential buildings in Northern Ireland.

The Scheme provides financial support to fix unsafe cladding in residential buildings over 11 metres in height and over 4 storeys.

Minister Lyons said: “The safety of people in their homes is of paramount importance.

“I am urging owners and agents to ensure any potential fire risks are identified and dealt with urgently.

“The Cladding Safety Scheme will help with the costs associated with the removal or treatment of potentially unsafe cladding.

“So far around £3.2 million has been awarded to building owners in Northern Ireland to protect residents.

“I would encourage owners of high-rise residential buildings to make an application before the closing date of 1 September 2025.”

The Department's Cladding Safety Scheme in Northern Ireland is administered by Home England as part of an agreement with the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

The Cladding Safety Scheme funding applies to residential buildings above 11m or over 4 storeys where a responsible developer cannot be identified, traced, or held responsible.

More information on the scheme including how to apply is available at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cladding-safety-scheme