The second phase of the Double Glazing Scheme has begun in Ards and North Down.

Representing an investment of £1.8 million, the scheme will see almost 1,000 Housing Executive tenants benefit from new double glazing in the area, resulting in falling energy bills for residents and a reduction in carbon footprint.

Phase 2 of the Scrabo Estate Double Glazing Scheme is underway to 217 homes, with completion expected later in the autumn, marking a £400,000 investment to the area.

Bowtown Estate Double Glazing Scheme is also due to be finished in January to 309 properties at an investment of £521,344.56.

In the coming months, more Double Glazing Schemes are due to get underway in Rathgill Estate, Bangor, Comber, Carrowdore, Breezemount and Conlig.

Welcoming the ongoing investment with the Double Glazing Schemes, Owen Brady, the Housing Executive's Area Manager for Ards and North Down said: "It is encouraging to see that nearly 1,000 properties within the borough will be fitted with new double glazed windows when all of these schemes have been completed.

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"Overall, this is a major investment by the Housing Executive for our tenants and has been very well received with a lot of positive feedback to date.

"Our tenants are looking forward to getting their new windows fitted which will make their homes much warmer and quieter, especially as we come into the colder months ahead."

These works follow on from the success of the first phase of the scheme which was completed earlier this summer thanks to £246,871.44 funding.

Through this phase, 112 properties had their windows upgraded by contractors, Engie Regeneration and Peter O'Hare Ltd who finished the scheme over a month ahead of schedule.

Speaking of her delight of the work, Lisbane Drive tenant, Margaret McCrea added: "I am really happy with the work that has been done and the new double glazing windows have made my home feel a lot warmer.

"I think I will especially notice the difference with the windows during the winter months and they are also a lot quieter too.

"They also feel safer with an added security clasp and they make me feel more secure in my home.

"Work was carried out to a high standard and the workmen didn't stop until all of my new windows were fitted, thanks to the Housing Executive."