Introduction

We provide a range of services to help rural communities and those living or wanting to live in rural areas. We have developed our ‘Rural Homes and People’ policy and are currently implementing a rural action plan to address rural housing issues. This deals with both public and private housing and applies to small towns, villages and other settlements across Northern Ireland.

• Download the Rural Action Plan ( 1009 KB)

• Download a list of the areas classified as Rural Settlements ( 15 KB)

The 2009/10 Rural Progress Report has just been published.

• Download the 2009/10 Rural Progress Report ( 844 KB)

About this section

This section provides advice on the following topics:

• New Homes - If you need a home or belong to a rural community where you think there is a need for new homes.

• Improving properties – if you want information on improving your property, including making your home more energy efficient or retaining/renovating a traditional building in a rural area. You can also find out about extra help available in Rural priority areas.

• Communities - If your community is interested in forming a residents group, networking with other groups or wishes to raise rural housing issues with the Housing Executive.

• Independent living - If you are faced with homelessness in a rural area or if perhaps your home requires adaptations to help you continue to live there.

• Rural development - If you want to find out how housing can contribute to broader regeneration and development.

• Research & information - If you want information on the research into rural issues we have undertaken.