Concerns raised over claims young people are being allocated over-55s housing in Ardee

Independent councillor for Ardee Jim Tenanty has raised concerns about the allocation of housing to younger people in estates designated for over 55s. 

The January meeting of the Ardee municipal district heard claims that there have been two cases in which people under 35 have been allocated housing intended for those older people. 

Cllr Tenanty questioned whether the allocations were made directly by Louth County Council’s housing section or if “another source” was responsible.

He said he doesn’t think it’s right to put young people into these estates and said “residents feel uncomfortable in the area” and as a result this has sparked antisocial behaviour. 

Christine Mullen, Administrative Officer, Louth County Council said she wasn’t aware of the cases brought forward by Cllr Tenanty and “would look into it”, she also confirmed 10 per cent of all new housing developments are designated to people over 55 as part of the housing allocation scheme.

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Cathaoirleach of Ardee, Cllr Dolores Minogue also called for Louth County Council to offer a viable option for older people looking to downsize their home. 

Cllr Minogue said Louth County Council should try to replicate the newly opened Heritage Retirement Village in Co Laois, a purpose-built, senior living community. 

Ms Mullen said there is a programme called “right sizing” in place under the Housing Allocation Scheme which encourages older people to move and downsize to age-friendly homes. 

She said those who choose to downsize can get up to a €1000 grant under the scheme. She also said the government will be releasing its own national right sizing scheme. 

Fianna Fáil councillor John Sheridan said it is important for people over 55 to have a plan for the future, arguing that “we have to be realistic” as younger generations have “finite resources”, and improved downsizing schemes could help free up family homes for young people.

There is currently a 46 property age-friendly development at Greenhills in Drogheda, specifically for over 55s.

The Greenhills Grange development will include 45 two-bed bungalows and a five-bed assisted living bungalow, and is due to be completed in mid-2026. 

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme