Communities Minister today visited a new phase of
34 social homes under construction at Kilnadore Brae in
Cushendall.
As part of the development phase of the ‘Housing for All' scheme
in the village, Rural Housing Association involved the local
primary schools, giving pupils the opportunity to name the
housing development.
During a visit to St Mary's Primary School, Minister Lyons
announced the winning names, praising the creativity of the
pupils' suggestions saying: “The names the pupils from St
Mary's and Glenann Primary Schools have suggested have been both
thoughtful and creative, paying homage to the mythical heritage
and coastal beauty of the local area. I am pleased to
announce the name of the development will be Lir View, inspired
by the tale of the Children of Lir and the village's connection
to the Glens of Antrim and Sea of Moyle.”
Minister Lyons then visited the nearby housing site, which is due
to complete next year. The Minister
commented: “Going forward, this shared housing
development will provide good quality, modern and sustainable
homes, tackling the demand for housing in this rural
community. Developments like this are happening right
across Northern Ireland, bringing economic and social benefits to
local areas. This housing scheme represents my commitment
to providing better quality, affordable homes so that more people
can live comfortably and be part of a supportive
community.”
Stephen Fisher, Chief Executive of Rural Housing Association,
added: “We are delighted that the children have played such an
important role in naming this development. Lir View will be a
landmark scheme for Cushendall, not only addressing housing need
but also building connections within the community. We look
forward to welcoming the first residents once the homes are
completed.”
This scheme will see the addition of 34 new social homes to the
village as well as a programme of Good Relations activities over
the next five years.
Notes to Editors
- The ‘Housing for All' scheme, currently under construction at
Kilnadore Brae, Cushendall will see the development of 34 shared
social homes. The development is supported by the Department for
Communities and the NIHE Housing for All Shared Housing
Programme. Total Scheme Costs are £7.2M with Housing Association
Grant of £3.8M. The scheme began on site in March 2024 and is
expected to complete by March 2027.
- The Rural Housing Association works in partnership with a
local Advisory Group of community and statutory organisations,
and with residents to develop the scheme's Good Relations Plan.
The Good Relations Plan includes a range of ‘Bridging' events
aimed at fostering good relations within the wider community,
with a focus on key areas such as Culture and Diversity, Health
and Wellbeing, Education and Training.
