Talks open on potentially delivering 75 new homes in Mayo's county town

A HOUSING body is in early discussions with Mayo County Council about potentially delivering 75 new homes in Castlebar.

Co-operative Housing Ireland (CHI) has looked at a site on the outskirts of the county town where planning is already in place for a mix of house tyes, including four, three and two-bedoom units.

CHI has asked the local authority for its support in acquiring the houses for social housing.

Elected members have been advised about the approach. Discussions between CHI and the council are ongoing.

Welcoming the opening of discussions, Councillor Ger Deere said he hoped if the talks are successful, that the scheme will include affordable housing as well as social.

He has requested clarity on this.

Approval in principle for 33 social homes on the Turlough Road, Castlebar, has also been announced by Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien.

Said Councillor Deere: “Any additional housing is welcome but I would hope that at least 50% of both of these developments would be allocated as affordable to help families that don't qualify for social housing but yet find it impossible to build or buy due to the cost involved, and find themselves trapped in the rental market.”