A new shared future housing scheme has been officially opened in Sion Mills.

The first 'new build' scheme of its kind for families in the North West, Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie described it as an "important route" to a shared future in Northern Ireland.

She visited the families in their new homes at Ballyfatton Close which are owned and managed by Habinteg Housing Association (Ulster) Ltd, working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

Ms Ritchie said: "When I launched the New Housing Agenda, I made it clear that I wanted to provide housing solutions that would bring people together. The Ballyfatton Close housing scheme launched today is helping to make that vision a reality.

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"The residents of Ballyfatton Close have made a public declaration that this is a community where people can live and work side by side."

The scheme includes 20 dwellings, providing a range of accommodation from three bedroom family homes to mobility bungalows.

The properties were allocated to applicants strictly on the basis of housing need. Representatives from Habinteg, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the local community, met with prospective tenants to discuss the principles of a 'Shared Future'.

All residents confirmed their choice to live in a neighbourhood committed to sharing by signing up to a voluntary 'Neighbourhood Charter' in which diversity is welcomed and respect and tolerance is shown to all.

(PR/JM)