Alliance backs move to help more people onto property ladder

3.14.45pm GMT Thu 15th Mar 2007

Castlereagh Alliance Councillor, Sara Duncan

Castlereagh Alliance Councillor, Sara Duncan, has welcomed Minister David Hanson's move to broaden the co-ownership housing scheme. The Social Development Minister has unveiled plans to increase the co-ownership value limit to help more people in Northern Ireland buy homes. The limit is now going to be £225,000 in Belfast and Castlereagh.

Cllr Sara Duncan said: "I am very glad that the Minister has decided to increase co-ownership value limits. This move will help first-time buyers get their foot on the first rung of the property ladder.

"We await the findings of Sir John Semple's report on affordable housing and I hope that when implemented, they will make buying a home easier, because the current housing situation poses severe problems for many people.

"There are currently very few affordable homes in Northern Ireland; therefore, the step taken by David Hanson on co-ownership is to be strongly welcomed."

ENDS