Laois County Council are to purchase 26 new houses in Borris-In-Ossory in a bid to alleviate local housing need in the village.
The houses have been purchased on the Rathdowney Road in an estate formerly known as ‘Deanswood’.
These houses have been derelict and left unfinished for more than 10 years but they will be fully renovated.
Fine Gael Councillor Conor Bergin spoke on the matter after Monday’s meeting of Laois County Council.
He hopes to see the houses prioritized for single or older local people.
Cllr Bergin said: “It was confirmed to me at our Laois County Council meeting this week that the Council have agreed to acquire 26 new houses in Borris-In-Ossory on the Rathdowney Road in the estate formerly known as ‘Deanswood’.
“These houses have been derelict and unfinished for over 10 years and I am delighted that they will be fully renovated for the benefit of local people.
“As 24 of the 26 houses are 2-bedroom units, I am anxious that these houses will be prioritised for single and older local people living in the area with a genuine housing need.
“Borris-In-Ossory is a fast growing village with both a young and older population.
“Since the village was bypassed by the new motorway in 2010, the local community have worked hard to regenerate the village working closely with Laois County Council.
“The new playground which is being constructed at the moment, the planned renovation of the courthouse and new housing in the village are all positive signs of progress in the area.
“I have been advised by the Council that it is anticipated to be 2024 before the houses will be finished and that no decision will be made on allocations of the houses to tenants until next year.
“I have had a number of local people in contact with me already regarding the houses and I will continue to make strong representations on their behalf to Laois County Council.
