Minister opens £24m new homes in Ballymacoss

This latest phase of social housing, provided by the Department for Social Development in partnership with Ulidia Housing Association, brings the total new homes built on the Windermere Road site over the past three years to 176.

Speaking at the event Mr Attwood said: "The building of 176 new homes on one site is a major achievement and is a significant boost for housing in Lisburn. Taken together with my recent announcement to start a further 146 homes on an adjacent site in March, it represents a major investment by my department to create much needed, quality new homes in this part of the City."

The Windermere houses have all been built to high levels of energy efficiency which includes gas central heating and PVC double glazed windows. All have been designed to Lifetime Homes and Secured by Design standards, ensuring added security and flexibility of adaptation for residents if required at a later date.

A unique aspect of the development is a partnership with Lisburn City Council to incorporate a multi-use games area as part of the scheme. The facility is not restricted to residents, but can be used by the wider community and the local primary school. After touring the scheme and meeting residents Mr Attwood said: 'I have been most impressed by what I have seen. In particular, the partnership approach between Ulidia Housing, the Housing Executive, the Council and the local community really has paid dividends in producing a new development that is attractive, sustainable and a credit to all concerned.' Paddy Gray, Chair of Ulidia Housing Association said they were delighted to complete the third and final phase of the Windermere Housing Development.

"I thank the Housing Executive and the Department for Social Development for its support and also welcome this opportunity to acknowledge the assistance of the Lisburn North Community Association in the successful development of this project."