Ardee housing shortage raises concern over choice-based lettings
Councillor warns lack of options is impacting wellbeing
A Sinn Féin councillor has voiced fresh concerns over the limited number of social housing properties available through choice-based letting in Ardee, warning that the ongoing shortage is having a serious impact on residents’ health and wellbeing.
At the February meeting of Ardee Municipal District, Cllr Pearse McGeough said he remains “disappointed” by the lack of properties being made available under the scheme in the mid-Louth town.
Calls for greater housing supply in Ardee
Choice-based letting allows approved social housing applicants to view and bid on available homes, giving families greater choice and transparency in the allocation process. However, Cllr McGeough said opportunities for applicants in Ardee remain extremely limited.
“I’m still disappointed at the lack of properties on choice-based letting for Ardee,” he told the meeting.
“People on waiting lists are having their health and wellbeing impacted, and that is not acceptable. We need to get our act together in terms of property provision in Ardee.”
Council confirms new units coming on stream
Responding on behalf of Louth County Council’s housing section, Declan Grimes confirmed that an increase in choice-based letting properties is expected in 2026.
He told councillors that the local authority has agreed to deliver:
- Six housing units at Potters Field, Ardee
- Eight housing units at Bridgegate, Ardee
Both developments are expected to be completed and made available within the next couple of weeks, offering some short-term relief for applicants.
Louth Village scheme to boost choice-based letting
Mr Grimes also confirmed that a larger housing development in Louth Village, consisting of 58 units, is scheduled for delivery this summer.
He said 60% of those homes will be allocated through the choice-based letting system, significantly increasing the number of properties available to applicants across the wider area.
Vacant property grant sees strong demand
Elsewhere at the meeting, Mr Grimes responded to a question from Independent councillor Bernie Conlon, confirming that nearly 400 applications have been received by Louth County Council for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.
The grant supports the renovation of derelict or vacant buildings that have not previously been used as residential homes. Successful applicants have 13 months to complete refurbishment works.
Ongoing pressure on housing in Ardee
While councillors welcomed confirmation of new housing supply, concerns remain that demand continues to outpace availability in Ardee. Elected representatives stressed the need for sustained delivery of social housing and continued use of schemes such as choice-based letting to ensure fairness and transparency for those on waiting lists.
Further updates on housing delivery in Ardee are expected later this year.
