Social Development Committee Host Housing Conference

The Assembly Committee for Social Development has hosted a housing conference at Stormont Hotel.

At the meeting, housing experts focused on "the way appropriate housing solutions can improve people's quality of life".

Organised in conjunction with the Chartered Institute of Housing, the conference also held discussions on planning and funding social housing and ways of promoting stable communities where both the public and private sector play their part. 

Chairperson of the Committee, Alex Maskey MLA said: "Housing is of course a priority for this Committee but it is often seen as being in crisis. The crisis is not just one of not enough houses, or of the right type and affordability. It is about building stable communities and ensuring that people can aspire to something better for their families. This situation presents us with an opportunity to develop creative and collaborative solutions. 

"This conference has given us a chance to bring together experts from all parts of the housing sector—including those involved in planning and financing both public and private housing – to consider what those solutions might be.

"One of the most important things to come out of this discussion today is that there is no one model to fit all circumstances. Housing needs are diverse and the solutions must be equally diverse and flexible. We need the right mix of choices where the public, voluntary and private sectors can all play their part.

"We can find ways to resolve these issues and I believe that this conference is playing its part in finding the solutions we need."

CIH Director for Northern Ireland Nicola McCrudden said: "CIH's vision is a housing system that works for everyone – this involves building more homes, building sustainable communities and ensuring that housing is both accessible and affordable.

"While there are significant challenges facing the sector, there are also major opportunities to deliver better housing outcomes for all. We are eager to continue actively working to identify effective solutions – we hope that today's conference has played a role towards this.

"CIH aims to provide a professional and impartial voice for the whole housing sector. Whether people's needs are to rent or buy, good quality housing helps people live well, enjoy better health and is crucial to supporting our economic growth."

(MH/LM)