Nearly 60 former MOD homes to be revamped for use

by Stewart Robson

59 former Ministry of Defence homes in Lisburn are to be transformed into social and affordable houses.

The Department for Communities has confirmed the properties on Mountview Drive and Skyline Drive will be revamped by Clanmil Housing.

There was a delay in the process because of no executive currently sitting at Stormont.

Permanent Secretary of the Department for Communities Tracy Meharg, said: “Reducing housing stress and increasing the level of housing supply across Northern Ireland are key objectives for the Department for Communities.

“The Department has been working for some time to ensure this transfer is made, so that these homes can be brought back into use for the benefit of the community. 

“Clanmil will soon be able to get underway with the refurbishment works and these vacant properties will be brought back to life and provide a good quality, comfortable home for many families.

“The use of former MOD homes like this is an excellent example of how former public sector assets can help tackle disadvantage and dereliction, and improve the quality of life for people of all ages who live in this area.”

Group Chief Executive of Clanmil Housing Clare McCarty, said: “We have been working closely for some time now with the Department for Communities to progress the transfer of these vacant properties. We’re delighted to finally be in a position to start the refurbishment work that will bring them back to life as much needed, high quality, affordable family homes.

“We’ve previously refurbished 36 houses in Mountview Drive so we know they make fantastic family homes and we’re really looking forward to seeing more families moving in and making these homes their own.”

SDLP councillor Johnny McCarthy also welcomed the news.

“These vacant properties were an attraction for anti-social behaviour and vandalism, when people in the area are awaiting homes.

“I am delighted that today the Department for Communities handed the keys for 59 former Ministry of Defence (MOD) homes to Clanmil for refurbishment as social and affordable houses.

“These properties will go a long way to providing homes for those in need. I look forward to seeing these properties transformed into a vibrant community.”