Paudie Coffey TD, Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community
and Local Government officially opens a new innovative, energy efficient
housing development in the heart of Clondalkin
Valhalla, an independent living scheme, was officially opened today by Paudie Coffey TD, Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government in the presence of the Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Fintan Warfield.
This development is a joint initiative between Clanmil Housing Association Ireland and South Dublin County Council.
Valhalla, located at Watery Lane, Clondalkin, provides homes for tenants with disabilities and able bodied tenants with care and support provided to individuals in their own homes as required.
Set in the centre of historical Clondalkin Village, this scheme harnesses the economic and social energy of the existing community to create a welcoming place for new tenants. The scheme is built on an infill site, which was acquired by South Dublin County Council. It has easy access to the bus corridor and Clondalkin Village. The development of this site has greatly enhanced the surrounding fabric and density of the village centre. The design and location of the project, and its integration into the community ensures the ease of professional and local support and maximises potential for both participation by tenants and development of outreach services and encourages interaction with the local community.
The building itself has been built to a very high specification and is a pilot scheme under the Government’s initiative ‘towards carbon neutral’ homes. All partners are delighted to be part of the provision some of the most environmentally friendly homes in Ireland.
In officially opening the scheme, Minister Coffey said:
“This magnificent facility here only became a reality through the vision and determination of so many people, giving freely and willingly of their talents and their time. There’s no denying that the capital funding assistance under my Department’s Capital Assistance Scheme was a key ingredient. However, when you harness all of these resources through leadership and drive, you can transform them into a powerful force for doing good.”
Johnny Murtagh, a resident said:
“It means a lot to me to live here because I can do a lot more that I could do before in my previous accommodation. I didn’t think I could move here in the beginning but would now like to advocate this type of housing for other people. Cheshire staff helped me a lot with the move. It’s great having my own place and lots of space, the neighbours and Clanmil staff are very kind. I talk a lot more than I did before. I’m very happy!”
Back row: Deiric O Braonain (Clanmil Ireland Chair), Martina Smith (Chief Executive), Derek Keating TD, Paudie Coffey, TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for Housing and Planning, Patrick Courtney (resident), Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr Fintain Warfield.
Front row: Aaron Abbey (resident), Jonathan Hennessy (resident) and Johnny Murtagh (resident)
ENDS
For further information please contact Christine Ashfield at Clanmil Housing on 004428 9087 6000.
Notes to Editors:
- Clanmil Ireland is a not for profit voluntary organisation engaged in the provision of social housing. We received approved status as a Housing Association on 12th February 2002 and are a member of the Irish Council for Social Housing.
- Clanmil Ireland is governed by a voluntary Board of Directors who are committed to the highest level of governance and accountability in all areas of operation.
- Clanmil Ireland currently owns and manages over 200 homes in the eastern Region of Ireland including family homes, homes for older people, people with disabilities and homeless people. Clanmil Ireland aims to be a primary provider of high quality homes at the lowest possible economic rent for everyone in housing need.
