Givan vows to do all he can to help meet social housing need in Lagan Valley

The Lagan Valley Assemblyman was responding to a challenge from Ulster Unionist MLA Jenny Palmer in relation to the shortage of new build social housing in the constituency.

Responding to Mrs Palmer’s claim that the Lagan Valley area is facing “a social housing meltdown”, Mr Givan said: “Having represented the Lagan Valley area for a number of years I am more than aware of the local housing issues. Efforts are however being made to address these issues.

“For example, in the last five years there have been over 500 new build social housing units provided, with in excess of 250 further units programmed to be delivered in the next three years.

“I can assure constituents that in those areas of greatest unmet social housing need I will do all I can to ensure development opportunities are brought forward.”

The DUP Minister added: “As I said during the recent debate on housing, the Executive is proud of its record of delivery on social and affordable housing for the people of Northern Ireland. Over 12,300 homes were delivered in the past five years which was more than 2,000 above the original target.

“I am committed to doing even more and since taking up post, I have consulted extensively with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and Departmental officials, and have set the ambitious target of starting a further 9,600 new social and 3,750 new affordable homes by 2021 to help address housing need.”