Local residents benefit from new kitchens

Communities Minister Paul Givan visited the Estate where 135 homes have received new kitchens as part of the Housing Executive’s investment across its stock.

Mr Girvan said: “It is clear to see how this investment is having such a positive impact on the lives of the tenants of the Hillhall Estate.

“The kitchen is often the heart of a home, and this replacement scheme will no doubt lead to a better living environment by providing more modern facilities.

“Each year the Housing Executive invests around £150million to maintain and upgrade its stock and this is just one example of how that investment is improving the quality of life for tenants by improving the quality of their homes. Over 4,000 tenants in more than 50 locations will receive new kitchens this year, from Castlerock to Kilkeel and Belleek to Ballycastle.”

The Minister visited a home in Ashmount Gardens. It is one of many homes that had a new kitchen fitted while many have also had new bathrooms and wiring upgrades. An External Cyclical Maintenance Scheme was also completed on the estate earlier this year which included repairs to gutters, fencing, doors and walls.

Aengus Hannaway, Housing Executive Area Manager for Lisburn/Castlereagh, said: “It’s fitting that the Minister should see first-hand the improvements being delivered in Hillhall, where we have invested almost £1.5million in recent years in various phases of work.

“We are committed to delivering better homes and making a difference in people’s lives - across Northern Ireland this year, we will replace 4,280 kitchens in our properties, spending £18.8million.

“All of our tenants, including those in Hillhall will feel the benefit of these improvements for years to come.”