By Dan Walsh
The Governments ‘Housing for All Programme’ aims to increase the delivery of different forms of housing to meet different needs – with several measures aimed at people who are currently unable to meet their housing needs but who, with help, could purchase their own home.
To support the county Wexford housing programme, Wexford County Council recently hosted a ‘A Breakfast Briefing on Affordable Housing Delivery’ in the Ferrycarrig Hotel, Wexford, with invited speakers presenting an overview of the national schemes and funding streams.
Opening the event, Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, Cllr. John Fleming said; “Affordability and the chance to own a home is a key element of our housing policy. Wexford County Council is actively working on developing an affordable housing programme over the coming years, – today’s event will hopefully highlight some of the opportunities available to deliver our shared housing ambitions.”.
Construction Industry Federation’s Southeast Branch Chairman Leonard Daly welcomed the members and commended Wexford County Council for arranging the briefing. Noting the available housing programmes in place to support the delivery of affordable homes, A critical factor in the increase in housing commencements was the ability of housebuilders to commence with confidence.
Chief Executive, Eddie Taaffe provided a detailed outline of the governments funding programme and housing delivery models, noting the housing collaborative opportunities between the local authority and the construction sector. “We want to develop enduring partnerships to make delivery as simple as possible,” added Mr Taaffe.
Director of Services for Housing delivery, Carolyne Godkin outlined details of the County Wexford Affordable Homes Programme, with plans to deliver a pilot Affordable Housing scheme in Ramsfort Park, Gorey, and future projects currently in development, including the ‘St. Walerans’ Masterplan – which hopes to deliver over 170 units in this mixed housing scheme.
Ms Godkin concluded; “Today was an opportunity to directly engage with the sector. In the coming weeks Wexford County Council will actively engage the market seeking expressions of interest for the provision of housing developments by developers and building contractors for delivery of affordable housing across County Wexford.”
The event included members of the Wexford County Council, officials from Planning and Housing Delivery Teams, Construction Industry Federation members, Housing Building Finance Ireland and property professionals from across the county.
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