Dream homes in Derrytrasna, Aghacommon and Derrymacash

News Strategies Youth
The winning pupils received an Amazon Kindle Fire.
The winning pupils received an Amazon Kindle Fire.

As part of a housing need test in the rural areas, local primary school children took part in our ‘My Dream Home’ art competition.

Pupils from St Patrick’s Primary School, Aghacommon and St Mary’s Primary School, Derrytrasna designed their fantasy homes as part of a programme of events to determine if new social or affordable housing is needed in the local area.

In October we held housing information events in both primary schools where residents had the opportunity to register their interest in social or affordable housing. Attendees were also able to speak to our staff about the application process and get advice on a range of housing issues. 

Earlier this week the winners of the ‘My Dream Home’ art competition were revealed.

John McCartan, our South Area Manager, explains why the organisation is assessing the need for housing in Derrytrasna, Aghacommon and Derrymacash:

“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 these rural areas.

“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 in the village should contact our Rural and Regeneration Unit on 028 9598 2502.