Some 75 new homes at Ballymacoss in Co Antrim have just become available with this latest phase of new social housing, provided by the Department for Social Development in partnership with Ulidia Housing Association.

It brings the total new homes built on the Windermere Road site in Lisburn over the past three years to 176, at a cost of £24 million.

Social Development Minister Alex Attwood, who officially opened them said: "The building of 176 new homes on one site is a major achievement and is a significant boost for housing in Lisburn.

"Taken together with my recent announcement to start a further 146 homes on an adjacent site in March, all represents a major investment by my department to create much needed, quality new homes in this part of the City."

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The Windermere houses have all been built to high levels of energy efficiency which includes gas central heating and PVC double glazed windows.

"All have been designed to Lifetime Homes and Secured by Design standards, ensuring added security and flexibility of adaptation for residents if required at a later date," he said, noting that a unique aspect of the development is a partnership with Lisburn City Council to incorporate a multi-use games area as part of the scheme.

The facility is not restricted to residents only, but can be used by the wider community and the local primary school.

After touring the scheme and meeting residents Minister Attwood added: "I have been most impressed by what I have seen here today.

"In particular, the partnership approach between Ulidia Housing, the Housing Executive, the Council and the local community really has paid dividends in producing a new development that is attractive, sustainable and a credit to all concerned."

(CD)