Minister opens 10 new turnkey social homes in Tullamore development
The official opening of ten new turnkey social homes within the Silverbrook housing development in Tullamore took place on Friday.
The homes were delivered by Co-operative Housing Ireland (CHI) with the support of the Capital Advance Leasing Facility (CALF) through the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
Silverbrook is a major mixed-tenure development comprising nearly 200 high-quality homes, and the ten units opened form part of the 40 social homes delivered in the estate through turnkey acquisition, Part V arrangements, and other delivery mechanisms, Offaly County Council said.
These new homes are all single-storey, universally designed bungalows, offering two- and three-bedroom accommodation suitable for households requiring accessible and adaptable living arrangements. The council said this reflected its continued commitment to delivering housing that meets the specific needs of its residents.
Cathaoirleach Cllr John Leahy said: “Silverbrook is a landmark housing development and a shining example of how modern, mixed-tenure communities can thrive. The ten homes we are opening today demonstrate how social and private housing can flourish together, creating a balanced and inclusive neighbourhood. Their accessible design strengthens our commitment to providing homes that truly meet the needs of the people we serve.”
Speaking at the event, Minister for Housing James Browne highlighted the Government’s commitment to accelerating social housing delivery, stating: “This Government is making an unprecedented investment in delivering new-build social housing, supporting high-quality developments like Silverbrook. I want to back more of this ambition to meet our housing supply shortage.
“We are using every funding mechanism at our disposal, including the Capital Advanced Leasing Facility, which is providing millions in support to Approved Housing Bodies such as Cooperative Housing Ireland. This enables them to apply their expertise to deliver high-quality homes where they are needed most.
“My priority as Minister is to sustain and build on the momentum we have. I want to see a scaling up of delivery so that more people can access quality, safe and secure housing for them and their families in their own local communities”
The Chief Executive Eoghan Ryan highlighted the collaborative delivery of the homes “These accessible, ground-floor homes reflect a strong collaborative approach and demonstrate our commitment to ensuring that housing delivery meets the needs of all. They provide long-term suitability for a wide range of households and reinforce our wider effort to deliver safe, high-quality and inclusive accommodation across Offaly.”
David McCourt, Director of Asset Management and Property Services of Co-operative Housing Ireland, said: “Delivered in partnership with Offaly County Council, this development includes a mix of homes, including 10 universally designed bungalows that support independent living and reflect our commitment to inclusive, sustainable communities. All homes achieve an A2 Building Energy Rating, helping to reduce energy costs for Member Tenants at a time of ongoing cost-of-living pressures.”
The Council acknowledged the dedication of CHI, the elected members of Offaly County Council, Council staff, the design and planning teams, and construction partners Carroll & O’Keeffe for their commitment and professionalism.