A new €5m state-of-the-art social housing scheme has been officially opened in Killaloe, Co Clare.

The 'Crossroads' scheme will provide housing for 24 families in two, three and four bedroom houses.

Constructed by Killaloe-based firm Gatecastle Construction, the new development brings the total of houses delivered by Clare County Council under its Social Housing Programme to 1458.

Speaking at the official opening ceremony, the Mayor of Clare, Madeleine Taylor Quinn, said: "The design, accessibility and usability of this development are of the highest standard.

"The development has also brought great vibrancy to this part of Killaloe."

The Mayor said Clare County Council was striving to "build communities rather than just build houses".

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"The local authority has an estate management unit within its Housing section, which works closely with the residents and is responsible for setting up residents associations, supporting them, and encouraging them to energise people in the community to help maintain and further improve their quality of life," she said.

Ms Taylor Quinn lauded Gatecastle Construction for delivering the scheme and paid tribute to the Clare-based design team comprising Michael Leahy; Paul Conway and Partners; Rogerson, Reddan and Associates, and Paddy Coleman and Associates, which she said had expertly managed and completed the scheme on time and within budget.

Local councillor Joe Arkins described the Crossroads development as a modern high quality housing scheme that acted as a focal point for the entire community.

"Tenants also have an opportunity to purchase their house, after one year of occupancy, and at current market values and low interest rate, this is an excellent time to consider that option," said Mr Arkins.

"In this scheme, the heating system is a dual system of gas and solid fuel. The highest standards have been used in installing heat/smoke detectors, safety locks on doors and windows," he added.

(PR/JM)