New homes for Christmas

NEWS that Dublin City Council has taken ownership of over 90 housing units at Hampton Wood in Finglas will mean the Christmas gift of a home for 30 local families.

The council agreed to take the 92 social housing homes after acquisition was facilitated by the National Housing Agency and funding was provided by the Department of Housing.

It’s expected that 30 of the homes will be ready within weeks, allowing families to move in before Christmas.

The units were bought for a reported €35 million and comprise 32 houses – eight four-beds and 24 three beds – and 60 apartments.

The apartments comprise six one-beds, 33 two-beds and 21 three-beds.

The homes, some of which are still under construction, are believed to be earmarked for families currently on the Ballymun housing list.

Dublin Lord Mayor, Nial Ring, said the news showed that Dublin City Council was leading the way in tackling the housing crisis.

“Although the naysayers may scoff at 92 housing units, it's a fantastic positive message of hope to those on the housing list," he said.

"These homes are currently under construction with nearly scheduled to be completed and available for allocation before the end of this year with the balance coming in phases in the early months of next year.

“It's going to be a great Christmas for 30 or so families and a message of hope for many more.

"Hampton Wood is located on St Margaret's Road in Finglas, an area that is well served by good transport, schools, recreational, commercial and community amenities ensuring that the new families moving into this estate will be integrated with existing and sustainable neighbourhoods and communities.”

Local independent Councillor Noeleen Reilly, who lives beside the development, also welcomed the news.

“It will provide some relief to families in the area on the housing list,” she said.

“It’s a drop in the ocean compared to what is needed but it’s a great start and we need to continue looking at all options to house people.

“Thirty families will have their forever home before Christmas, which is fantastic.

“It’s also great that there is a decent mix of sizes, which in the past this has not often been the case. 

“I know people will be watching anxiously over the next while hoping that they will get one of these homes and I’m happy to provide any assistance I can.”