20 families got an early Christmas present as a social housing project launched in Wicklow

The new social housing development was officially opened in Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow on Tuesday.

For 20 families, a real Christmas miracle happened earlier this week as they were presented with keys to their new homes. The Avondale Heights development consists of eight one-bed, 10 two-bed and two three-bed homes and the properties were ready for the families to move into without delay. Northern Irish contractors QMAC Construction Ltd were was at the helm of these new high-quality homes. The company has been in operation since 1982 and specialises in commercial, heritage, sports and leisure, education, health and social housing projects across Ireland. Tuesday's launch was attended by Minister of State Andrew Doyle, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Councillor Pat Vance, Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council and Rhona Quinn, Chairperson of QMAC Construction Ltd. The new houses are highly energy efficient and have been fitted with quality materials such as Wicklow granite stone and factory applied painted timber to provide a neutral low maintenance interior, with powder coated aluminium cladding externally to avoid weathering and reduce maintenance. The properties boast stunning views and pathways with benches for residents to relax. There is also a 270-litre rain harvesting capability which serves the planted area of the development. On Tuesday, speaking on behalf of QMAC, Rhona Quinn said:

"We are delighted to be here today for the opening of a high-quality development of 20 beautiful homes that we were privileged to have built. It is great to know that so many families will be in their new homes in time for Christmas."

She added that the company is looking forward to working on more social housing projects throughout the next few years. Minister Doyle said:

"The Government is committed through Rebuilding Ireland to addressing the need for more social housing units by working with local authorities such as Wicklow County Council, and we will continue to address the needs of Ireland’s growing population by delivering further housing developments."

These developments are much-needed as according to figures released by the Housing Department in October, there are currently 9,724 homeless people, including children, in Ireland.