Londonderry's social housing needs have reached a height not seen since the 1970’s, according to the NI Housing Executive.

In the past five years, social housing demand has increased by 42%, with over 2,500 people now on the waiting list for a home in the Housing Executive's western area.

-- Advertisement --

However, the number of available houses has fell by almost a quarter during the same five-year period.

The man at the helm of the Housing Executive has insisted he is confident the problem can be resolved.

Paddy McIntyre said: "We believe we will see a start made on the Skeoge Road in the current year."

"There are a number of other potential sites round the city, and we're helped by the fact that the housing market is almost in our favour now."

"Provided the funding is there, we think we can deliver 1,100 units over the next five years," added Mr McIntyre.

(PR/JM)