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Ten new homes have been unveiled on Rathlin Island, marking the completion of its first social housing development in more than a decade. Residents gathered with community and political representatives to celebrate its official opening on Thursday 24th September.
Delivered by Rural Housing Association in partnership with the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, the development will help address local housing need and support the long-term sustainability of the island community.
The development follows a housing needs assessment carried out in 2016 by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Rural Housing Association and Rathlin Island Community Development Association, which identified a clear need for additional social housing on the island.
Welcoming the new development, Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said:
“This is a significant moment for Rathlin and the culmination of many years of collaboration, planning and determination.
These 10 homes represent much more than a new housing development. They will give individuals and families with a connection to Rathlin the opportunity to build their future here, strengthening the community and helping to sustain the island’s population for generations to come.”
John McMullan, Vice-Chair, Northern Ireland Housing Executive Board, said:
“We are proud to have played a key role in delivering these much-needed homes for Rathlin Island. From identifying the need for additional social housing through the 2016 housing needs assessment, to working alongside our partners to bring the development forward, this has been a truly collaborative effort.”
Rural Housing Chief Executive, Stephen Fisher said:
“It has been wonderful to celebrate the official opening of our new development with residents, the local community and all the partners who helped make this development possible.
Rathlin Island is a truly special place, with a strong and close-knit community. These new homes will give more people with a connection to the island the opportunity to build their lives here, helping to sustain its population and support a thriving community for generations to come.”
Chair of Rathlin Island Community Development Association, Marina McMullan, added:
“The opening of these homes is a hugely positive moment for Rathlin. Access to affordable housing is essential if people are to remain on the island, return to live here or take up local employment.
This development responds to a need identified by the community and will make a meaningful contribution to Rathlin’s future. We are delighted to welcome the new residents and celebrate this milestone together.
