Groundbreaking celebrated at NB Housing’s new Forthriver scheme in Belfast

The development will provide 18 much-needed new homes that will accommodate 54 people and will incorporate the very latest in design and security features.

The scheme, designed by Rolston Architects, will consist of 2-bed lifetime homes and is a clear commitment by NB Housing to provide high quality social housing in areas of housing need.

The construction works will be delivered by Connolly & Fee, due for completion in September 2019.

Deborah Brown, Director of Housing, Department for Communities, said “The Department continues to prioritise the building of new social homes in order to address housing need. This investment of over £1m from the Department will help deliver much-needed high quality social housing for families in the Glencairn area. It is great to see work getting underway.”

John Simpson, Chair of NB Housing, added “This project will see a total investment of £2.5m with NB Housing providing £1.3m and the department funding the remainder”.

Ian Graham, Development Subcommittee Chair, commented “Forthriver has been planned for quite some time and we are pleased to be in a position to commence construction onsite. This scheme will help in meeting the growing demand for social housing within the Glencairn area”.

John Brooks, Director of Development & Property Management, stated “We engaged in a rigorous search to find the best contractor and it is pleasing to appoint an organisation that has the skills, experience and resources for the task in hand. Connolly & Fee have extensive experience in delivering top quality social housing projects across Northern Ireland and we look forward to working together in delivering this development for the local people of Glencairn.”

Conor Connolly of Connolly & Fee, said “We are delighted to have been appointed as contractor on this flagship project for NB Housing. We look forward to forging a strong, successful working relationship with NB Housing and to delivering a high quality scheme for both them and the local community.”

Mark Collins of Rolston Architects concluded “We are delighted to be associated with this project and NB Housing. This project has been designed to exceed current building regulations and create an attractive, sustainable development where people want to live.”