Clare County Council recently revealed that it expects to provide an additional 244 social houses around the county by early 2009.

The announcement follows the provision of 17.5 million euro to the Local Authority’s 'Social Housing, Building and Acquisition Programme' for 2007. The allocation represents a significant increase of over 22% on 2006 and the largest ever-funding figure granted to the Programme in Clare.

The Council’s Housing Section has also confirmed that this week’s monthly meeting of the Local Authority resulted in planning approval being sanctioned for the final two schemes of 2007 at Miltown Malbay and Cúl na Gréine, Shannon. This brings to a total of 61 new houses for which tender documents are currently being prepared for the purpose of appointing building contractors.

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Joe Arkins, Cathaoirleach of the Housing Strategic Policy Committee, said: “A number of schemes will be completed this year, adding an extra 100 housing units to the Council's existing housing stock of 1340. These include Broadford, Ballyvaughan, Sixmilebridge, Clarecastle and phase one of schemes in Kildysart and Killaloe.”

Mr Arkins confirmed that a further 50 houses are currently under construction in Dun na Rí, Shannon, Corofin, Scariff and Ballynacally.

Ms Kaye, Senior Executive Officer for Housing and Social Services added: “House purchases are expected to be in the region of 30 for 2007 and to date houses have been purchased at Shannon, Lahinch, Ennistymon, Killaloe and South East Clare.”

Meanwhile, a social housing project consisting of 22 units of accommodation in Clarecastle has been shortlisted for a national design award.

Ms Kaye said: “This scheme is one of three Local Authority schemes selected to go forward to the final and is an example of excellent design standards, including safety, security and comfort for its 46 residents.

“Clare County Council is delighted that the Clarecastle scheme has been named as a finalist in this year’s ‘Irish Council For Social Housing Design Competition’. Being shortlisted by the ICSH is a tribute to the impressive scheme designed by Hassett Leyden Architects and constructed by KC Development.”

Local Councillor Bernard Hanrahan, said: “This is a very prestigious award and is befitting to the excellent standard of housing delivered here.”

The awards ceremony will take place later this month.

(LC/SP)