Minister welcomes Cork council’s progress on social housing development

Housing minister James Browne has welcomed progress on a Cork County Council social housing development at Clós an tSuláin in Macroom.

Once complete, the 18 homes will include 10 two-bedroom and eight one-bedroom homes, all allocated to households on the Cork County Council housing waiting list.

The development will also feature a five-bed communal residence for people with acquired brain injury. 

The specialist facility will provide a safe and supportive environment, enabling residents to live as independently as possible while staying connected to the local community, through ongoing support from ABII (Acquired Brain Injury Ireland).

Tuath Housing Association and Anvers Housing, in partnership with Cork County Council, are delivering the specialised housing development which is currently under construction.

Anvers Housing Association works in conjunction with ABII to enable people with neuro rehabilitation needs to lead meaningful lives within their community.

The minster for housing Mr Browne said: “Our housing action plan places a strong emphasis on supporting those with specific housing needs, such as older people and persons with disabilities who may require additional supports.

“This development here in Macroom is exactly the type of scheme envisaged under our plans, delivering more suitable, age-friendly homes alongside specialist provision for those with particular needs, including people living with acquired brain injury.”

He continued: “By supporting a mix of housing options, we are supporting people to live independently for far longer while ensuring that new developments respond to the evolving needs of our population and contribute to stronger, more inclusive communities. I want to see more of this and well done to the team here.”

Angela Murphy, vice-chair of the Tuath voluntary board of directors, added: “This project demonstrates Tuath’s commitment to delivering housing that responds to a wide range of needs, while working collaboratively with local authorities, community-based organisations and the Department of Housing to support communities across Cork”.

Clós an tSuláin is a Tuath direct build development, funded through the capital assistance scheme (CAS) by the Department of Housing, and being delivered in partnership with Cork County Council on council-owned land transferred to Tuath.