Multi-million euro development of 38 social homes in Clara is officially opened
A €12.5 million social housing scheme in Clara was officially opened by the Cathaoirleach of Tullamore Municipal District, Cllr Frank Moran, today (Wednesday).
The council development at Willow Drive, Clara, consists of 38 social homes in total.
The newly completed homes have an 'A' energy rating and include one, two, three and four-bedroom bungalows as well as two, three and four-bedroom two-storey dwellings that are designed to be wheelchair accessible.
The Willow Drive project was delivered under the 'Housing for All' 2022-2026 Social Housing Investment Programme at a cost of €12.5 million. Construction work commenced on site in March of last year and finished ahead of schedule this month.
The housing was designed in partnership with Offaly County Council’s capital design office and the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage. Walsh & Associates Architects, Hayes Higgins Partnership Engineers, and John J Casey & Co Quantity Surveyors were appointed by the council as the design team, and Bretland Construction Group was appointed as contractor.
Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Cllr Frank Moran said: "I'm delighted to be here to officially open this development. There is high demand for housing in Offaly, and these much-needed social homes will provide another 38 families and individuals with homes for life.
"Although this is a great news story today, I along with Offaly County Council’s elected members and executive, will continue our efforts to meet the demand going forward."
Chief Executive of Offaly County Council, Anna Marie Delaney, praised the council staff and the design and construction team, stating, "Our capital design office, in collaboration with various agencies and stakeholders, successfully designed and delivered these homes.
"As part of the scheme, Offaly County Council delivered the upgrades to the local footpath infrastructure ensure safe passage to the town of Clara for the residents of Willow Drive. Additionally, the estate has been designed to provide a safe and comfortable environment for both pedestrians and cyclists," Ms Delaney added.
"As with all projects delivered by Offaly County Council, I acknowledge the support and collaboration of our elected members who ensure the successful delivery of these high-quality sustainable homes."
Cllr Frank Moran concluded, "These homes, which are built to an excellent standard, will contribute to a thriving future for all residents."
The ‘Offaly Housing Delivery Action Plan 2022-2026’ identified the delivery of new social and affordable homes as a key priority.