Hundreds of households are set to benefit from a major new housing scheme in Derry-Londonderry following the official opening of The Cashel by Apex Housing Association (Apex) and the Braidwater Group.

The launch event was attended by the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Grace Uí Niallais.

The milestone marks significant progress on one of the North West’s largest residential developments, which is expected to provide almost 2,500 homes across social, affordable and private tenures.

Among the first residents to move into Maple Glen, the initial neighbourhood within The Cashel, is Clodagh McAuley. After receiving the keys in late September, she and her two-year-old daughter, Cadie-Rae, have moved on from emergency accommodation to start a new chapter.

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"I was absolutely buzzing when I got the call. The house is amazing. It's so spacious, with loads of storage, and I love the kitchen – it's just stunning. Having our own place means we don’t have to feel like a burden to our family anymore. Now we have our own space, somewhere we can call home."

Ryan Boyle, Managing Director of the Braidwater Group, said: "This is a landmark moment for The Cashel and housing delivery in the North West. We are delighted that families are already settling into Maple Glen, and The Braidwater Group is proud to be working alongside Apex as further phases progress.

"With almost 2,500 homes planned for The Cashel, the development will deliver a mix of predominantly private and affordable housing, alongside social homes, creating a balanced and sustainable community.

"Reaching this milestone is particularly significant given the scale and complexity of bringing a development of this nature forward. The Braidwater Group has worked diligently to navigate considerable challenges along the way, from planning and design through to wastewater and infrastructure requirements, including delivering the local road network and essential infrastructure needed to unlock these new homes.

"The Cashel represents a substantial long-term investment, supporting local employment, economic growth and the delivery of much-needed homes across the city and wider North West."

An official opening event marked the completion of the first social homes for rent at Maple Glen, with more phases advancing across the wider site.