Major award for Peadar Kearney House

AN INNER City development has won a prestigious award at the Chartered Institute of Housing Awards 2018.

Circle Voluntary Housing Association scooped the ‘More than Bricks and Mortar’ award in recognition of its work with the residents of Peadar Kearney House in Dublin 1.

Representatives from Circle VHA and Peadar Kearney House residents attended the awards ceremony held in Northern Ireland at the Titanic Belfast to pick up the coveted award.

‘More than Bricks and Mortar’ recognises a demonstrated commitment to tenant empowerment and to improving opportunities for delivering real change.

Circle VHA was shortlisted from more than 30 entrants from across the island of Ireland.

Located on the site of the old Liberty House on Railway Street in the North Inner City, Peadar Kearney House is a development of 56 apartments and townhouses.

It was built following a long campaign by locals to renovate their old estate and it’s now managed by Circle VHA on behalf of Dublin City Council.

Work commenced on Peadar Kearney House, in January 2013 with the first phase handed over to the council in May 2014 and the final phase completed in September 2014.

Circle VHA has worked closely with the tenants to ensure that the high standards of the development are maintained, meeting with tenants regularly and responding quickly to issues as they arise.

“Peadar Kearney House is a powerful example of urban regeneration at its best,” said chief executive of Circle VHA, John Hannigan.

“We have been innovative in our approach and have developed a partnership with the tenants’ association that has inspired a dedication to delivering measurable benefits for the community as a whole.

“Together, we have developed a safe scheme with great community spirit, helping the tenants there to overcome social problems in the surrounding area.

“As a result, they live in a safe and secure environment. Circle VHA staff have been very impressed by the ownership of the development demonstrated by the tenants. 

“All have benefited by the housing body and the tenant group having an equally positive impact on each other.”

Hannigan described the award as a testament to the dedication and commitment of staff, the Circle VHA board and the tenants of Peadar Kearney House.

“They are the community and they make it a place that feels like home,” he added.

“We are delighted to have worked in partnership with our tenants on the development and on the submission for this Award, which the judges said was one of the best in the competition overall.

“We thank all at Peadar Kearney House for their collaboration and commitment to their community.”