A new £2.5m housing development has been opened in Bessbrook, for people with learning disabilities.

The requirements of the twelve tenants, all former long stay patients from Longstone Hospital, were at the forefront of the design process.

Ardaveen Manor supported living scheme was built in three single storey clusters of domestic styled accommodation, each housing four residents.

The buildings were designed to include an array of energy saving, design and security features.

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Opening the scheme, Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie said: "I have been most impressed by the new accommodation and support provided.

"Helm Housing, the Housing Executive and the Southern Health and Social Care Trust are to be congratulated on coming up with a design and care package that is a real winner."

The Minister continued: "I am committed, through the Social Housing Development programme, to deliver record numbers of social housing and that includes more high quality, supported housing schemes such as we have seen here today."

The Southern Trust’s Chairman, Anne Balmer added: "This is a wonderful home for the twelve tenants who have moved here through the supported living scheme and who are assisted and encouraged by dedicated staff."

(PR/KMcA)