Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has opened a new £3 million shared housing scheme at Woodside Park in Loughbrickland.

The development of 24 new homes has been developed by Ulidia Housing Association with part funding from the Northern Ireland Executive. The two, three and four bedroom properties have all been built to high energy efficiency levels with double glazed windows and a range of eco features fitted as standard to help reduce heating costs.

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The scheme also embraces the shared housing concept with new tenants signing up to a 'good neighbours' charter which welcomes everyone regardless of religious or cultural background.

Minister McCausland said: "Ulidia Housing Association is to be congratulated for providing these much needed houses in an area that continues to have a high housing need and for continuing to build on its good neighbour, shared community ethos.

"The evidence is that people want to live in shared communities and my Department is keen to facilitate these good neighbour arrangements.

"My Department requires that all new social housing is built to high levels of sustainability and energy efficiency. This new development certainly fits the bill and I have been most impressed by what I have seen.

"I wish all many years of happiness in their new homes."

(CD)