North Lurgan ‘highest’ unmet housing needs

And a site study by the NI Housing Executive has identified 28 possible sites in private ownership which may be suitable for social housing.

Following a question by Upper Bann MLA Dolores Kelly, Minister Mervyn Storey said Housing Associations had submitted a number of scheme proposals for sites in North Lurgan – however, it will only reduce the unmet housing need figure to 48 units.

He said: “Based on statistics covering the March 2010-2014 period, the projected housing need for the Upper Bann Constituency up to 2019 was 228 new social housing units. However, following recent social housing development and proposed development the new forecasted housing need for the area has been reduced to 116 units.”

Over the last year, Housing Associations have submitted proposals for sites within the North Lurgan area which will further reduce the unmet housing need figure.

In addition, the Housing Executive also maintains a Landbank Register of Undeveloped Land and Existing Open Spaces. A site at Gilpinstown Road in North Lurgan has been identified. A feasibility study is currently being carried out to establish the development potential. If acceptable, the site has the potential to provide up to 30 units.

The NIHE has also been working with the Planning Service in developing the Banbridge/Newry and Mourne Area Plan 2015, which has also resulted in a number of sites throughout both districts having a Key Site Requirement for social housing.

A NIHE spokesperson said: “Based on figures for March 2010-2014 for the Upper Bann constituency, the Housing Executive concluded a five-year projected need (to 2019) of 228.

“Recently there has be considerable housing association activity in the area, and as a result, this figure has been reduced to 116. The housing association activity in North Lurgan has reduced its unmet need to 48.”