The key issue of housing in Mid Ulster is set to be explored in a major new conference next month.

The Mid Ulster Housing Forum will host its first public event at the Burnavon Theatre in Cookstown on Monday 12 June from 9.30am until 1pm.

Hosted by Paddy Gray OBE, Professor of Housing at Ulster University, the inaugural conference will be focused on the theme of 'Housing supply in Mid Ulster: Starting the conversation'.

Mid Ulster Housing Forum has set out four key topic areas which will come under the spotlight at the conference next month: Housing Supply Strategy; Social and affordable housing; Private sector housing; Local Development Plan.

The conference will bring together a number of key private and public bodies, including government departments, council officers, planners, estate agents, developers, architects and the Community & Voluntary sector.

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Chair of Mid Ulster District Council, Councillor Corá Corry said: "Housing is a key issue in Mid Ulster, so it is very welcome to see all the relevant agencies from across the sector, coming together to identify the key issues which need to be addressed.

"Mid Ulster has one of the fastest growing populations, so there is a high demand for housing both in the social and private sector and as a council I am delighted that we are providing a platform to inform and discuss the issues, at this local level. We want to ensure that every resident has access to good quality affordable homes.

"We hope this will be the first of many conferences on housing and we look forward to hearing a wide range of views from all those involved with the housing sector."

Conference host Paddy Gray OBE added: "Housing is not just about bricks and mortar. Good housing and homes support our health, our wellbeing, our life chances and our job prospects.

"Everyone should have a home that brings them those chances and opportunities. This conference is timely and will provide an opportunity to discuss how good quality, affordable housing can be delivered to meet the growing demand across the council area."

To register for the free event, please send an email to [email protected].