AQO 1059/22-27

Mr Andrew McMurray
Alliance Party
South Down

Tabled Date: 17/10/2024
Answered On Date: 04/11/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to outline any plans he has to make use of the 20,000 vacant properties to address the shortage of housing supply.

Answer:

Tackling long term vacant properties and creating opportunities for town or city-centre living plays an important role in regenerating towns and cities, supporting places to be vibrant and sustainable, where people want to live, work and visit.

I have been working on a Housing Supply Strategy to address the wider challenges facing housing supply. This includes consideration of how we can make best use of existing buildings to provide much need housing.

I am currently finalising this Strategy and intend to bring it to the Executive for consideration shortly.