WORK has begun on a new 88-unit housing scheme in Newry on the site of the former Saint Clare’s Convent and Primary School in the city.
Choice Housing, one of the north’s largest housing associations, and its subsidiary Maple and May, are behind the £18 million mixed tenure development, where construction will be led by Clonrose Developments.
Development of the scheme is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, and when all work has been finalised, it is set to consist of 18 two-bed apartments for private rent managed by Maple and May and a further 70 social housing properties, managed by Choice.
And a key feature of the scheme will be the bespoke community hub that will provide a range of high quality and cost-effective services to local people.
Partners working on the project include Clonrose Developments, H&J Martin Construction, Newry-based architects Gray Designs, and Hall Black Douglas Architects.
Choice Group chief executive Michael McDonnell said: “This is one of our biggest and most ambitious projects in recent times and I'm pleased to see the project under way.
“Not only does the development represent a significant boost to the area economically and, at the same time, help to address the ever-growing need for social and private rentals in Newry, we also believe it is sensitive to an area that has historical significance and interest.
“In a part of Newry that’s been under-developed for some time now, when St Clare’s has been finished by contractors, Choice Housing is confident that this will be a very attractive place to live.”
Stephen Davey, director of Clonrose Developments, added: “We're pleased to continue our strong relationship with Choice and Maple May and deliver what will be our fourth and most ambitious project to date for them.
“The St Clare’s site will be challenging from a development perspective, located within a conservation area and combining the sympathetic restoration of a listed Chapel and the retention of many mature trees.
“But once complete, we are confident it will provide a unique setting for the 88 new homes, within walking distance of Newry city centre.”
Choice has 741 properties in the Newry Mourne and Down area, with 448 of these designated for family housing and the remainder a mix of sheltered and supported housing respectively.
The homes, care and support services Choice provide help meet the diverse needs of its customers, including pensioners, families, mature singles, and individuals with complex needs.
