Potential residents are being urged to register their interest in living in the village before Friday 29th August, 2025 by calling 028 9598 2502 or emailing rural.housing@nihe.gov.uk.
An online form has also been made available and can be accessed by visiting
https://www.nihe.gov.uk/community/rural-issues/new-homes-in-rural-areas
Housing Executive staff are very keen to engage with any potential residents who would like more information.
Pamela Johnston, Rural and Regeneration Manager at the Housing Executive, explained: “A Rural Housing Needs Test is an opportunity for people to find out more about housing options in the area.
“Quite often, especially when we have very few social homes in an area, people don’t see the value of coming forward to put their name on the waiting list.
“But we use the local waiting list to determine housing need and to support housing associations in developing new homes, so it’s vitally important that people tell us there is a demand.
“If we find there is demand for new homes, then we can engage with a housing association to examine the potential for a new-build scheme in the district.”
Sharon Crooks, the Housing Executive’s local Area Manager, is also urging local people to express an interest if they want to live in a social home.
She said: “This exercise will help us to determine the need for new housing in this area and I’d encourage interested local residents to get in touch.
“While the Rural and Regeneration Unit examines the potential for new housing, you will still be considered for any housing that might become available if you are already registered with us or a housing association.”
