More than 230 new social homes began construction in the Causeway Council area in the last year

Sinn Féin Councillor Kathleen McGurk has welcomed the significant progress in delivering new social homes across Causeway Coast and Glens, with a  substantial increase in new build figures and a strong focus on rural communities.

The Housing Executive has confirmed that 237 new social homes began construction in the council area in the past financial year – the highest total in several years – with a further 410 homes currently under construction and an additional 411 programmed to start between now and 2028.

Cllr McGurk said: “These figures show a real and growing commitment to tackling housing need in our area, and I’m particularly encouraged to see rural towns and villages benefiting directly. New schemes in places such as Castlerock, Dungiven, Cushendall and Rathlin will make a tangible difference for families and individuals in need of secure, quality homes.”

Among the upcoming schemes, rural developments are planned for Dunloy, Drumsurn, Dungiven, Rasharkin, and Cloughmills.

Highlighting progress in her own district, Cllr McGurk added: “I particularly welcome the figures for Dungiven, where additional homes will help meet pressing demand. However, we must also ensure that surrounding villages such as Feeny and Foreglen are not left behind.

"I have been working closely with the Housing Executive through the Community Planning Partnership to improve how demand is measured in these areas so we can capture the true, often hidden, need for housing. I’m pleased to say that a pilot demand assessment is now planned in Foreglen, which I hope will pave the way for similar work in other rural communities.”

Cllr McGurk said Sinn Féin would continue to work with the Housing Executive, housing associations, and council planning departments to ensure delivery remains responsive and meets local needs.

“Every new home is more than bricks and mortar – it’s stability for a family, a future for a young person, and dignity for our older citizens. We must keep the momentum going,” she added.