Grant Welcomes More Social Housing for Newry but questions remain
Slightly amended from the original article in the Clanrye News
“Will all forty-eight houses be fully public housing for those currently on the public housing waiting lists? Will the rents be the same as public housing rents? And is this provision guaranteed for the future?”
Workers Party Newry and Armagh Representative Nicola Grant has welcomed plans for Kelly Constructions new social housing development in Newry.
Nicola stated while 48 new homes is a welcome development in a situation where we have a major housing crisis, some questions need to be asked and answered, as the term ‘social housing’ does not always mean public housing.
“Will all forty-eight houses be fully public housing for those currently on the public housing waiting lists? Will the rents be the same as public housing rents? And is this provision guaranteed for the future?”
Nicola continued, "I fully welcome the plans for open spaces and the commitment to blend with the local environment but can see no plans to create a children’s playground within the development or within walking distance of the development."
Nicola concluded, "given the high levels of poverty, multiple deprivations and health inequalities in the Newry area it should be a stipulation that all housing planning permissions granted by the council, as a bare minimum should have plans for playgrounds/ play area and other facilities for the residents. All of the resources that the council and other agencies have must be used to target the high levels of poverty and social deprivation our communities suffer from."