'It will give me a new lease of life'... New residents move in to their new homes in Navan social housing development
The keys of 84 brand new social houses at Gort na Glaise in Farganstown, Navan were handed over to the tenants last week and excitement is high in the development as the new community settles in.
Among the new tenants is Damian Boylan (left), who was on the housing list for more than eleven years, and has been allocated a one bedroom apartment.
"I am delighted, really, really chuffed. It is very impressive, very nice. I can just picture what it will be like when I have it fully fitted out."
Most important of all, Damian says it gives him a real sense of security. "I have moved home about four times in a the last few years," he said.
"I cannot believe it, everyone has been so helpful and I am really looking forward to settling in. It will give me a new lease of life."
Another new tenant is Alisha Lacey who is moving in with her little boy who has autism.
"I have been on the list four years, so this is great news," she said. "I'm over the moon. I was in a HAP property, it was on a high floor which wasn't suitable for my little boy and we had no garden or balcony.
"There was also the fact that I could be moved at any time.
"This new place is great, We have a balcony and my son loves it. It is great to know now that I have my own home for as long as I want it.
"I got the news last Wednesday, and I was just so happy," she said.
The Mayor of Navan, Cllr Eddie Fennessy said it was great news for the 84 households who will make a home on the estate.
"The properties are finished to a very high standard and the estate is well designed and laid out. There is plenty of green space and some recreational seating for the new community to enjoy.
He said he was delighted to see a good number of one bedroom properties in the new housing scheme. "These are badly needed as 56 per cent of the housing list is made up of applicants looking for one bedroom units.
"This new housing scheme will mean many of these will now finally have a place to call their own," he said.
"Gort na Gaise is located on lands at Farganstown which is near Johnstown. Several projects will be developed there over the coming years on lands that are zoned residential, community and high tech industry.
"Sinn Féin have called for the development of those lands for a number of years. We are delighted to see much needed social housing delivered at last. We'd also like to see industry develop and create employment at Farganstown for local families."