Dream homes in Darkley

Pupils from Darkley Primary School designed their fantasy homes as part of a programme of events to determine if new social or affordable housing is needed in the village. 

We also held a housing information event in the school, where residents had the opportunity to register their interest in social or affordable housing. They were also able to speak to our staff about the application process and get advice on a range of housing issues.  

The winners of the ‘My Dream Home’ art competition were revealed just before the children went off on the summer holidays. 

John McCartan, our South Area Manager, explains why we are assessing the need for housing in Darkley:

“This competition is part of our housing need test which will hopefully allow us to gain an understanding of the housing needs of those interested in living in the village.

“There was a fantastic response to the competition and I was really impressed with the level of creativity in the drawings. As well as a drawing sheet, each child was given a leaflet to take home to their parent or guardian encouraging anyone in genuine housing need to come forward.

“If we identify a demand for social or affordable housing then we will examine the potential for a housing association to deliver a new build scheme.”

Those interested in seeing more affordable or social housing Darkley should contact our Rural and Regeneration Unit on 028 9598 2502 or rural.housing@nihe.gov.uk