No place like home as new scheme opens

OLDER people on the Northside received a boost last week when a development of 47 new homes opened in their area.

Approved Housing Body (AHB) Fold Ireland opened the development at Wellview House, Tonlegee Road, in the company of Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoghan Murphy, local public representatives and the tenants.  

Wellview House, which is fully occupied, is one of the organisation’s many social housing developments, either completed or under construction, in the Dublin area. 

The accommodation will provide independent living for older people in a purpose built three-storey block which contains 47 one-bedroom apartments.

The new accommodation was provided under the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan and received funding of €10 million from the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government and the Housing Finance Agency (HFA). 

Sanctioned by Dublin City Council, all incoming new tenants had been on the council’s housing waiting lists.

The new homes were procured, designed and built specifically to match the needs of older residents, with automated door entry, lifts to upper floors and Connect 24 monitored warden call service in every home.

 After meeting with the tenants, Minister Murphy said: “These 47 new homes demonstrate the vital role that Housing Bodies play in providing social housing in tandem with local authorities. 

“This is part of the Government’s new and more sustainable approach to the delivery of social housing, as outlined in the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan. 

“This development consists of one-bed apartments for older people who will find a great sense of community and security in their new homes.”  

Tina Donaghy, Director of Development at Fold Ireland, said they seek to continuously provide good quality affordable housing to those in need.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the delivery of these much-needed new homes into this community,” said Ms Donaghy.

“They will promote positive ageing and independent living and are a most welcome addition to the area.”

Deputy chief executive of Dublin City Council, Brendan Kenny, said the need for housing affects people’s lives in so many ways. 

“This development is a step in the right direction, is in an ideal location at the heart of a thriving community and offers easy access into the city as well as a wide range of local services and amenities for tenants,” said Mr Kenny. “Dublin City Council is very happy to support Fold Ireland with this great project.”