Mathers - New Apartments Welcomed but More Urgently Needed

A new housing development in Newry city centre has been welcomed as a positive and much-needed addition to local provision, though a councillor has warned that much more is required to tackle the housing crisis.

Newry City Councillor Aidan Mathers attended the festive opening of Clanmil Housing's Merchants Quay development last week alongside Newry and Armagh MP Dáire Hughes and Council Chairperson Cllr Philip Campbell, joining residents, community representatives and partners involved in delivering the scheme.

The development comprises 38 new apartments, including 29 social homes, providing secure and modern accommodation for local people. Councillor Mathers commended Clanmil Housing, Kelly Brothers, MDF Architecture and everyone involved in bringing the project to completion.

"This is a welcome development for Newry, particularly at a time when demand for housing continues to rise," he said.

However, Cllr Mathers warned that the scale of the housing crisis requires urgent action beyond individual developments. He pointed to the most recent Housing Needs Assessment which clearly demonstrates that demand for new social homes far outstrips current supply.

"It is evident that no single development, or piecemeal approach, can meet the level of need that exists across our communities," the Newry councillor said. "This situation requires urgent and decisive action. The Communities Minister must recognise the reality facing families on the ground and take meaningful steps to ensure the delivery of the social and affordable homes that people urgently need."

Cllr Mathers said the Merchants Quay scheme demonstrates what partnership and proper investment can achieve. "Merchants Quay shows that real progress is possible when resources are committed and partners work together. This project brings life into the city centre, supports regeneration and gives dozens of families a place to call home. We need to see more projects of this scale delivered right across the district."

The councillor wished the new residents well as they settle into their homes and said Sinn Féin will continue to stand with local communities and press for the investment required so that more families across Newry and the wider district can access safe, secure and affordable housing.