Brendan Loughran & Sons has begun construction on the development of a £2.6 million social housing scheme in Monkstown, Co Antrim.

The Devenish Drive scheme, launched by Choice Housing, will deliver 20 new homes with the latest energy saving, design and security features. The homes will consist of a mix of apartments, houses and bungalows, with half of the developments targeted at older people or those with more complex needs.

Funding of £1.47 million was invested from the Department for Communities and an investment of £1.13 million was provided by Choice Housing. The land was transferred from the Housing Executive.

Rolston Architects also completed work on the design of the scheme.

Michael McDonnell, Group Chief Executive of Choice Housing said:

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"We've wasted no time in getting this site construction-ready and the start of these new homes is good news for people in Monkstown and those on the housing waiting list. We look forward to officially opening the Devenish Drive scheme next year and welcoming families and individuals who can contribute to the wider economy and fabric of the local community.

"The support from the Department for Communities and Housing Executive have been invaluable and have helped get this scheme moving. We know there is acute demand for new homes and our extensive new-build programme has made good progress this year. We're working hard to get more schemes underway and identifying new sites that can support more great homes."

Elma Newberry, Assistant Director of Land & Regenerations Services, from the Housing Executive added: "We are pleased that the construction of the Devenish Drive housing scheme has begun in Monkstown. This has particular significance to the Housing Executive as this was part of our first pilot 'Place Shaping Regeneration Plan', done in collaboration with Antrim and Newtownabbey Council, through the Community Planning process.

"We worked closely with Monkstown Community Association at every stage of the Plan to ensure residents were given the opportunity to express their future ambitions and vision for the area. The development of these new homes is the first step in making this vision a reality and we are proud to be part of this."

(CM/MH)