Propertymark has come out in support of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s (NIHE) housing strategy aimed at addressing significant housing challenges in the region.
This response comes after its ‘Our Plan: Doing What Matters Most’ report which revealed that the social housing waiting list has topped 47,000 households, highlighting the urgent need for affordable, quality homes.
The plan calls for increased Government collaboration with private and third sectors to boost housing supply and quality.
The executive acknowledges failing to meet its target of 2,500 new social homes annually and aims to commit to long-term public subsidies and develop new funding models for affordable housing.
Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and First Minister Michelle O’Neill noted that the £150m investment in the Enhanced Investment Zone will play a crucial role in fulfilling these housing needs.
They said this initiative aims not only at providing housing but also at fostering inclusive and thriving communities.
The executive recognises systemic issues in housing and is aligning with UK Government funds to tackle them effectively.
The strategy prioritises decarbonising homes, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring that housing growth aligns with environmental standards.
A focus on reducing homelessness is also central to the strategy.
Treasury agreements are also being sought to allow the NIHE to increase investment in home improvement and energy efficiency.
The executive plans to launch a new fuel poverty strategy, alongside ongoing investments in shared ownership homes aiming to deliver 800 per year through low-cost loans.
Reform of the private rented sector and review of NIHE’s private sector grants are also on the agenda to meet the specific needs of residents.
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, said: “Propertymark looks forward to working with the Northern Ireland Executive to deliver a mixed tenure of new housing that will meet the needs of all people in Northern Ireland, as well as commitments to increase investment in housing and to reform with the planning system to deliver homes in the right places.
“However, we also hope that the Northern Ireland Executive can build a sufficient number of homes to ensure that supply and demand levels can even out to make housing more affordable for everyone.”
