CHOICE Housing has launched a £1.7 million construction project to build much-needed new homes in Newtownabbey.
Scheduled for completion next April, the scheme will provide 12 family homes accommodating up to 44 people in the area and incorporating the latest in energy saving, design and security features.
The development is set on a 0.75-acre site of the former St Ninian’s Parish Church on the Whitewell Road in Newtownabbey (the church closed in June 2015 and was demolished earlier this year).
When complete, the scheme will include eight two-bedroom houses and four three-bedroom houses.
The project- which is designed by Rolston Architects and will be built by Geda Construction - is funded through a mix of private financing secured by Choice Housing and grants from the Department for Communities.
Michael McDonnell, group chief executive of Choice Housing said: “This important scheme will bring much needed family homes to the Whitewell area of Newtownabbey, at a time when demand is high.
"It is good news particularly for those on the waiting list. This is a site we've worked hard to secure and we are grateful for the support received from the Department for Communities.”
He added: "We currently have 285 properties in the Antrim and Newtownabbey area. The high quality homes, care and support services help meet the diverse needs of a wide range of people in the area. I look forward to welcoming new tenants into their new homes next year”.
Deborah Brown, director of housing at the Department for Communities, added: “I'm delighted to join Choice in marking the start of construction of this new scheme in an area where there is real need for quality social housing.
"The development represents a significant investment from the Department as well as Choice Housing and will be welcomed by those on the waiting list.”
