Omagh's New £6.8M 'Housing for All' Development: A Boost for Communities

While this exciting new development is located in Omagh rather than North Belfast, it offers a fantastic example of the initiatives being taken across Northern Ireland to address critical housing needs and foster community spirit. A brand new £6.8 million 'Housing for All' development, featuring 31 modern houses, apartments, and a specially adapted bungalow, has been officially launched by Arbour Housing at Mountjoy Road and Woodside Grange.

This vital project is proudly supported by the Department for Communities and the Housing Executive’s 'Housing for All' Shared Housing Programme. To date, £3.6 million has been invested in the shared housing aspect and its associated five-year Good Relations Plan, with a potential total investment of £3.8 million pending final approval. An additional £3 million in private finance has also been contributed by Arbour Housing.

The 'Housing for All' Shared Housing Programme is rooted in the NI Executive’s 'Together: Building a United Community' Strategy. This initiative reflects a deep commitment to enhancing community relations and moving towards a more united and shared society throughout Northern Ireland.

Kieran Matthews, Chief Executive of Arbour Housing, highlighted their dedication: "Arbour Housing is committed to providing sustainable and inclusive housing solutions, serving the community with dignity, accessibility, and long-term comfort in mind. We are making a tangible difference to families and individuals across Northern Ireland, giving them a place to call home with modern design, supporting a greener future with reduced heating costs and energy-efficient principles."

Matthews further emphasised the pressing need for such developments: "With waiting lists across Northern Ireland at critical levels, this development brings vital new capacity to a strained housing market. It's a real pleasure to see this new 'Housing for All' Land, Design and Build Scheme at Mountjoy Road and Woodside Grange filled with families and individuals in homes designed to help them live, share, and grow. This project is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, community focus, and a shared commitment to building better futures. Arbour Housing continues to seek further opportunities to expand its footprint and deliver more homes where they are needed most."

Cllr Barry McElduff, Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, underscored the widespread challenge: "Housing remains a critical issue, and I commend Arbour Housing for their dedication to housing development and fostering community relations in Omagh and our broader Council area. Our recent Housing Conference in November 2025 clearly highlighted the need for more high-quality and affordable homes. We share a commitment to ensuring every person and family in our district has a safe, secure, and affordable home, as housing is central to our health, prosperity, and community – a truth for Omagh, Enniskillen, and all our villages and rural areas."

The £6.8 million development was built in partnership with contractor GEDA and received crucial financial backing from Danske Bank. Claire McKeown, Corporate Banking Manager at Danske Bank, stated, "Congratulations to Arbour Housing on delivering another high-quality housing development. With demand for affordable homes rising, Danske Bank is delighted to continue to provide funding to Arbour Housing to support sustainable development and thriving communities across Northern Ireland."

Eddie Murnin, Associate Director at GEDA Construction, added: "It has been a privilege for GEDA Construction to deliver the Mountjoy Road development in Omagh on behalf of Arbour Housing. With the first phase complete, and the second phase to be delivered later this year, the overall scheme will provide much-needed social housing that supports local families. We are proud to have played a part in shaping the future of the local area by providing safe, high-quality homes for the community."

Arbour Housing currently manages five shared housing developments across Northern Ireland, located in Banbridge, Newry, Newcastle, Omagh, and Magherafelt. The Mountjoy Road, Omagh Good Relations Plan includes 'Bridging' events, designed to engage the wider community and encourage positive interactions, further embedding the spirit of shared living.