Councillors Briefed On Housing Executive Plans

The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) has outlined its latest Housing Investment Plan to members of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council during a deputation at this evening’s full council meeting.

Senior officials from the NIHE presented the annual update, discussing ongoing work, key priorities, and continuing challenges in meeting housing needs across the borough.

Addressing councillors, the NIHE representative thanked elected members and council officers for their continued partnership, describing the collaboration as “essential” to delivering sustainable housing and supporting local communities.

Investment and priorities

The presentation highlighted substantial ongoing investment in housing across the borough, including spending on social housing, maintenance, and community support programmes. Officials emphasised the importance of the Supporting People scheme, which funds local projects assisting individuals with disabilities, mental ill health, and homelessness.

The Housing Executive also underlined strong progress on home improvement and maintenance programmes, particularly initiatives to improve energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty.

Building for the future

Officials noted that new-build social housing developments are continuing across the borough, with several notable projects underway. They also discussed the need to balance development between urban and rural areas, acknowledging that land availability remains a significant challenge.

Over the coming years, the NIHE plans to maintain a focus on delivering new homes, improving affordability, and ensuring that rural communities are not left behind.

Addressing housing pressures

Councillors were told that housing demand continues to rise, with limited movement within existing stock putting pressure on waiting lists. The NIHE is working to expand the supply of temporary accommodation and reduce reliance on hotel placements.

Officials confirmed that approval has been sought from the Treasury to allow the organisation to borrow for new housing investment. If granted, this would strengthen its ability to deliver long-term housing solutions and reduce dependence on temporary measures.

Councillors’ questions

During questions, councillors praised the work of local Housing Executive teams but raised concerns about insulation, homelessness, and vacant properties.

Members were assured that a new cavity wall insulation programme is underway, with plans to expand it further once additional funding becomes available.

Concerns were also expressed about the availability of temporary accommodation, with some residents reportedly being referred outside the borough. The NIHE acknowledged the pressure but said the number of local units had increased and that work was ongoing to keep placements as local as possible.

Empty and repossessed homes are also being assessed for potential purchase or repurposing as part of efforts to increase available housing.

“A supply issue at heart”

Concluding the deputation, the NIHE representative said the main challenge remained one of housing supply.

“This is fundamentally a supply issue,” they said. “We need sustained investment and long-term planning to reduce housing need. Land availability, infrastructure, and consistent capital funding are all key to that.”

They added that collaboration with councils, housing associations, and local planners is vital, with community planning described as having made “a real difference” in delivering successful local developments.

This article will be updated further tomorrow, 5th November 2025.