As potential buyers 'camp-out' awaiting the sale to begin, SDLP East Derry MLA John Dallat has called for a strategy to be put in place to maximize the potential of the former army barracks site in Ballykelly.

He said: "The release of these houses this week provides a unique opportunity for first-time buyers to own their own home.

The houses are in good repair but do need upgrading to provide for modern domestic appliances so it is important that grants are available in the future for new owners to 'personalise' their homes to ensure that they meet all the modern safety standards and needs of the families that will live in them.

"SDLP Leader Margaret Ritchie has visited the site and there have been follow-up meeting involving her officers to see if some of the homes can be bought for social housing. I remain hopeful that this will happen.

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"The site which comprises approximately 900 acres needs a strategy which will ensure that new businesses and new job opportunities are attracted to the Ballykelly area.”

Mr Dallat continued: "The homes are close to the City of Derry Airport and the main Belfast-Derry railway line runs through the estate.

"The Office of the First and Deputy First Minister have been asked to become involved but to date they have not asked that the site be ‘gifted’ so that a comprehensive business plan can be compiled to plan the future.

"In reality hundreds of new jobs could be created in this area which has suffered badly as a result of the closure of Seagate and other industries.

"Even in times of severe economic recession new jobs begin to emerge and Ballykelly is well placed to avail of these but the Assembly hasn’t been meeting the challenge and this must happen."

About 50 people have set up tents and are camping close to the former army homes in Ballykelly.

The queuing began on Friday evening and the houses will be up for grabs next Saturday, 8 May.

It is a long wait, but for people hoping to get a foot onto the property ladder, it is worth the time spent at the roadside under canvas.

There are more than 300 houses up for grabs but just 20 will be sold for £30,000 each.

(NS/BMcC)