Rathcoole residents invited to discuss plans for new social housing scheme

Members of the public received correspondence from Helm Housing, inviting them to an information event to discuss plans for a new housing scheme at Old Irish Highway - a site previously occupied by a derelict block of flats.

The event, which will be held in the Dunanney Centre in the estate, will run from 3pm until 6pm on Thursday, April 28.

The proposed scheme will see 18 new self-contained housing units being developed. Of these, there will be 12 three-person housing units consisting of two bedrooms and six five-person units, each containing three bedrooms.

A spokesperson for Helm Housing said: “Helm Housing works closely with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to address and meet the demand for housing provision in places such as Rathcoole and the wider Newtownabbey area. We have developed a proposal to build 18 new homes on the Old Irish Highway to help address some of the housing problems locally.

“We are currently consulting with the community and have invited local residents to attend an information day on Thursday, April 28 from 3pm until 6pm at the Dunanney Centre. This will be an opportunity for the community to find out more about the proposals and speak directly to Helm Housing representatives. As with any new Helm Housing development, the views of the local residents is extremely important as we want to ensure that we build strong communities. Throughout the consultation and planning process we will keep the local residents up to date with the project.”

News of the proposed development has been welcomed by Cllr Paul Hamill. The DUP representative said: “This is good news for the area. There is a great need for housing in the Rathcoole area and the announcement of the new homes is very welcome. It is very positive that the derelict flats have now been knocked down and the ground has been levelled for redevelopment.”

UUP representative, Cllr John Scott also welcomed the initiative. He said: “It is fantastic news as homes in the area are very much needed. Hopefully this is the start of housing projects and other land in will be used for future housing schemes.”

TUV representative, Cllr David Hollis added: “Homes are needed in the area and it is good to see the construction of houses rather than flats.”