Positive news for Drogheda housing list
Labour’s Cllr Michelle Hall has expressed her satisfaction that in the latest figures released there is an impact on the social housing allocations in Drogheda due to new housing developments, with the vast majority of units allocation based in the town.
Every month, Louth County Council releases their social housing allocation figures to elected representatives. The social housing list figures, not including Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) stood at 2,104 on the waiting list, of which 654 were in Drogheda.
“At last, we are seeing an impact on the social housing allocations in Drogheda due to new housing developments. Out of 124 houses allocated last month, 105 units were given to people on the housing list in Drogheda, some who have waited 13 years to get their ‘forever’ home, as many say. People are often living in sub-standard accommodation or in overcrowded family homes which can cause stress on everyone and often ill-health,” said Cllr Hall. “I would like to see more affordable housing schemes in Drogheda, like the one that was released recently in Blackrock, Dundalk. This will allow for those on moderate incomes who don’t qualify for social housing but are finding it hard to get on the housing ladder, to buy at a reduced cost with the local authority having a 20pc stake.”
The majority of the housing allocation in March were for An Caireal, The Meadows in Drybridge, Ellwood on the Ballymakenny Road.
An Caireal, apartment block on the Donore Road provides a total of 66 apartments, allowing for a range of needs within the ageing community, and a Clann community hub provides additional support, with social lounge, laundry, communal kitchen and offices for the support team.
“In order to qualify for social housing you need to meet the net income limit and have a housing need, in that you cannot find any other suitable accommodation,” she added. “I do recommend that anyone who thinks they qualify under this should apply. Citizens Information’s website is a good source of information and you can also enquire in Drogheda Civic Offices in Fair Street.”