A new £5.2 million housing scheme has been unveiled for Ballyclare, Co Antrim.

The development will see 39 new homes for active older people, plus a space for a social enterprise. The project is expected to be completed in August 2018.

Located on the site of a former department store, the initiative is being funded by £3.2m from the Northern Ireland Executive, with a further £2m being provided by Choice Housing Association.

Communities Minister Paul Givan said: "This year the NI Executive, through the Department for Communities, will deliver 1,600 homes for the people of Northern Ireland.

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"This programme aims to provide housing to meet the needs of many in our society – from families with young children to our older population.

"This scheme at The Square in Ballyclare will help meet the demand in this area for accommodation for the active elderly and provide 39 homes for people on the social housing waiting list.

"With being located in the town centre and being close to the local amenities, this new development will enable the residents to live independently and play a central role in the local community."

Michael McDonnell, Chief Executive of Choice Housing, added: "This is an exciting development that will provide 39 new homes for older people in Ballyclare, enabling them to remain active within the local community.

"These energy-efficient, accessible and adaptable homes are designed to meet the needs of older people. The first tenants will start moving into their new homes next year and we look forward to officially opening the full scheme in 2018."

(JP/LM)