Some of Northern Ireland's most energy efficient homes are to be built in the scenic seaside village of Carnlough.

The Stormont Social Development Minister, Alex Attwood, has paid a visit to the site of the old Drumalla House which has made way for the innovative Co Antrim project.

The 11 new homes will be constructed using a high proportion of materials from renewable sources and using new technologies to ensure maximum insulation. The homes will also contain triple glazing and photovoltaic roof panels to convert sunlight into electricity.

Alex Attwood said: "The delivery of high quality, energy efficient housing is a key priority for my Department. Social housing is leading the way in building homes which meet high levels of sustainability.

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"This £1.5m development is therefore important in ensuring that families across Northern Ireland are living in the warm and comfortable homes they deserve."

During his visit to Carnlough, Alex Attwood met with 100-year-old Annie Thompson, who grew up beside Drumalla House. Mrs Thompson recalled doing recitals for the family in Drumalla House over 80 years ago and chatted with Minister Attwood about the new homes on the site.

Minister Attwood added: "Oaklee Homes Group is to be congratulated for embracing the challenge to provide first class, energy efficient homes. Building greener to minimise environmental impact has to be the way forward.

"Social house building is now at its highest levels for over a decade. Last year we provided 1,838 new homes, and this year we aim to build 2,000, so we have the opportunity to make a very real difference."

Sylvia Doran, Oaklee Homes Group Chairperson commented: "I am delighted to visit this exciting new housing development. Oaklee is leading the way in energy efficient homes.

"The energy specification of Level 4 for sustainable homes at this new development will bring much added benefits to the future tenants.

"I very much welcome the support from the Department for Social Development, the Department of Energy and Climate Change and the Housing Executive in this venture," she said.

(GK/BMcC)