A new rural social housing development has been officially opened in Crumlin.

Social Development Minister, Mervyn Storey MLA, attended the ceremony at Laurelvale Close.

The development consists of 14 three and four bedroom houses, and will provide for families on the social housing waiting list.

The properties are owned and managed by Habinteg Housing Association who also funded the build, with support from the Department for Social Development.

Minister Storey said: "I am delighted to welcome the new tenants into these high quality homes. This latest development is a tremendous and much needed addition to the village.

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"New modern housing like this is vital to the survival of rural communities. As communities living in small towns and villages continue to grow there is an increased demand for more homes to ensure a more sustainable way of life. My Department, working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, is pleased to have been able to support and help fund this latest development."

He added: "This is one of three schemes being developed by Habinteg in the Crumlin area. Developments at Glenavy Road and Lurgan Road, which are currently under construction, will provide a further 22 family homes. Habinteg Housing Association is to be commended for providing these family homes and for playing such a part in the development of the community here in Crumlin."

David Duly, Chief Executive of Habinteg Housing Association, commented: "We are delighted to have acquired, with the support of the Department for Social Development, these properties in Crumlin. The first of three Habinteg schemes in the area, Laurelvale Close represents a major contribution to the provision of good quality housing for families in an area of considerable housing need."

(JP/LM)