Residents’ move into new Ratoath homes a ‘dream come true’ after nightmare delays
A YOUNG mother who had been waiting 18 months to move into a social housing development in Clonee that had been plagued with delays has said finally getting the keys to her new home was “a dream come true”.
Robyn Lee had been allocated a two-bedroom apartment in March of last year but says she starting to believe it would never happen after an unresolved dispute between Uisce Eireann and the developer left over 70 families in limbo.
Some of the families had been told they were allocated homes in the development as far back as 2023 and have been anxiously waiting to move in.
Robyn said it was the beginning of a new chapter for her family and is looking forward to making the home her own.
“When I got the keys, it was just pure disbelief, it didn't feel real,” said Robyn.
“It had got to a stage where we thought it was never going to happen,” she added.
“The apartments are really nice and bigger than what we thought they were going to be.
“I brought my little girl over last night and she was delighted that she has her own room.”
Independent Cllr Nick Killian said it was “the best news he had got from Meath County Council in a long time.”
“I'm absolutely delighted that this project is coming to fruition 16 months after residents were offered places in the homes being in a position where they can actually move in this weekend,” he added.
It also going to free up apartments and houses that are being rented at the present time and will allow others to rent those.
“I wish all of the residents all of the happiness in their new homes.”
Fianna Fail Cllr Caroline O'Reilly also welcomed the news: “After an 18 month delay, Aylesbury residents are collecting their keys Thursday and Friday this week.”
“I have been inundated with queries from residents who expected to be living there a long time ago. I totally sympathise with them, many are struggling to cope in their current living situation with overcrowding, uncertainty around their accommodation and various other issues.
“While it's totally unacceptable to wait this long it’s a welcome relief for many people to finally have the keys to their new homes. The development was plagued with delays that have thankfully been resolved and I hope that lessons will be learned from it for future developments in the midst of a housing crisis in particular.
“I met a young man this evening when I visited the development. He was so excited and relieved to be moving in. It was really great to see the excitement.
“It’s a beautiful development and its fantastic to see so many local people finally housed. There is plenty of green space, a playground and access to transport infrastructure so its an ideal location for this development. I wish everyone well.”