SDLP MLA for Mid Ulster, Patsy McGlone, has warned that the need for social housing in Magherafelt is not being met.
The Housing Executive recently released figures to the Mid Ulster MLA which stated that, at September 2023, there were a total of 305 applicants on the social housing waiting list for Cookstown, of which 205 were in Housing Stress. Despite this clear need, between the end of August 2022 and the beginning of September 2023 there were less than 24 allocations of social homes.
Mr McGlone said, “It is clear that the existing strategy to meet the need for affordable housing in Magherafelt is failing.
“The latest figures for applicants on the social housing waiting list in Magherafelt are 305, with 205 being identified as in housing stress. Despite this clear need, the number of actual allocations of social homes in the town over the last year was less than 24.
“In addition, according to the 2023-2026 Mid Ulster Housing Investment Plan regarding Housing Association activity in Magherafelt, only 60 units are currently programmed for completion between 2023 and 2026 with work expected to begin on these schemes this coming year. All are in the general needs category.
“Meanwhile, according to the Housing Executive, the 5-year projected housing need for Magherafelt, from 2022-27, is said to be 110 units in total.
“There has been a clear need for more affordable social housing in Magherafelt over many years. The current schemes programmed will continue to fail to meet this need. Each application on the waiting list represents a family or individual currently in an inappropriate housing situation, and that list is likely to continue to grow.
“The SDLP warned the previous Communities Minister that her affordable housing plan was completely inadequate.
“I know that there are families in Magherafelt who are continuing to live in overcrowded properties, and people with disabilities are still in properties wholly unsuitable to their needs.
“Many individuals and families have been waiting for years and many will have already given up hope of finding a home of their own.
“Any incoming Executive needs to take action on this issue to get people off the waiting list and into an affordable home.
“The SDLP will work constructively with the Housing Executive and Housing Associations to help ensure this happens.”
ENDS
Your MLA 