Outgoing Group Chief executive of Clanmil Housing Association, Clare McCarty has been recognised with an RSUA Honorary Membership.

Clare has led the social housing provider for over 37 years in the creation of quality homes, and building shared neighbourhoods for over 10,000 people, across Northern Ireland. She was recognised for her outstanding contribution to the built environment and her help in advancing the role of architecture in creating more sustainable communities.

RSUA President Donal MacRandal presented Clare with her Honorary Membership at the organisation's annual Architecture Night, held at the Banana Block, Portview Trade Centre, East Belfast this year.

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Under Clare's leadership, Clanmil has been recognised for the design quality of its homes including its scheme at Durham Street, Belfast which received awards from the Chartered Institute of Housing, Construction Employers Federation and the Belfast Telegraph during 2019/20. Clanmil's scheme at Fitzroy Avenue Belfast was shortlisted for the Royal Society of Ulster Architect Design Awards 2019. 

Through Clare's vision, the derelict historic Northern Whig building in Waring Street was transformed into a modern headquarters for Clanmil in 1999. This helped pave the way for the redevelopment of the Cathedral Quarter area.

The merger of Hearth Housing Association wing with Clanmil and the creation of the Hearth Heritage Division within Clanmil is further evidence of Clare's personal commitment to regeneration and the built heritage.

Clare was elected to the Chair of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) in Northern Ireland, the first woman to do so. She has also served as Northern Ireland Chair of the Chartered Institute of Housing. The contribution she has made to social housing was recognised when she was awarded an OBE. Clare has been an attender at RSUA events and initiatives over many years including the last RSUA Study Trip to Hamburg.