“At last, we are seeing an impact on the social housing allocations in Drogheda due to new housing developments.” So said Labour Councillor Michelle Hall after it was disclosed that the vast majority of homes allocated by Louth County Council this month are in Drogheda.
“Out of 124 houses allocated last month, 105 went to people on the housing list in Drogheda, some who have waited 13 years to get their ‘forever’ home. “People are often living in sub-standard accommodation or in overcrowded family homes which can cause stress on everyone and often ill-health.
“I would like to see more affordable housing schemes in Drogheda, like the one that was released recently in Blackrock, Dundalk.
“This would allow people on moderate incomes who don’t qualify for social housing but are finding it hard to get on the housing ladder, to buy at a reduced cost with the local authority having a 20% stake in the house.
“In order to qualify for social housing you need to meet the net income limit and have a housing need, in that you cannot find any other suitable accommodation.
“Anyone who thinks they qualify should apply. Citizens Information’s website is a good source of information and you can also enquire in Drogheda Civic Offices in Fair Street.
The majority of the housing allocations in March were for An Caireal, The Meadows in Drybridge and Ellwood on the Ballymakenny Road.
An Caireal, apartment block on the Donore Road provides a total of 66 apartments, allowing for a range of needs within the ageing community, and a Clann community hub provides additional support, with social lounge, laundry, communal kitchen and offices for the support team.
Every month, Louth County Council releases their social housing allocation figures to elected representatives. The social housing list figures, not including Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) stood at 2104 on the waiting list, of which 654 were in Drogheda.
