'Breaking ground marks the beginning of an exciting journey': Northern Ireland housing association and Londonderry construction firm starts £43m investment in 260-home Belfast development
Radius Housing and EH Allingham Construction begins first phase of 140-home scheme that will create a new community as part of a wider 260-home masterplan
Northern Ireland housing association Radius Housing has officially broken ground on the first phase of a landmark residential development in Belfast in a move that marks the beginning of a £43m investment.
The development at Hannahstown will create 140 homes and a new community on land north of the Glen Road.
It represents the first phase of a wider 260-home masterplan and is located adjacent to an earlier phase completed by Radius Housing in partnership with Choice Housing.
Planning approval for the scheme, which comprises a mix of one- to four-bedroom properties, was secured in June 2024.
Designed around a central green space, the development will feature a children's play area, civic space, and specially commissioned public artwork.
The £43m development is being supported through £22.6m in grant funding and £20.4m in private investment.
Completion is anticipated in March 2029. The contractor appointed to complete the scheme is Londonderry’s EH Allingham Construction (NI) Ltd.
Jordan Allingham, director of EH Allingham (EHA), said: "EHA are proud to be delivering this landmark development in partnership with Radius Housing. Hannahstown is a significant investment in the future of West Belfast, and our team is committed to delivering high-quality, energy-efficient homes that will serve the community.
"This development reflects EHA Group's commitment to high standards in construction, sustainability and social value. Throughout the project, we will work closely with Radius Housing, local stakeholders and our supply chain to ensure quality and safety targets are achieved, while creating employment opportunities and supporting the local economy.
"Breaking ground marks the beginning of an exciting journey, and we look forward to handing over a development that will make a lasting positive impact on the lives of residents and the wider community."
Once complete, the wider development will provide homes for approximately 535 people.
John McLean, chief executive of Radius Housing, said: "Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of one of the most important housing developments currently underway in Northern Ireland. Hannahstown will provide much-needed high-quality homes for hundreds of people and families in West Belfast, helping to address substantial housing demand while creating a sustainable and inclusive new neighbourhood.
"Radius's mission is to ensure that people across Northern Ireland can live good lives in their communities, and developments of this scale demonstrate that commitment in action. This scheme has been carefully designed to meet a wide range of housing needs, from families and older people to residents requiring wheelchair-accessible accommodation.
"Combined with its strong environmental credentials, extensive green space and focus on community wellbeing, Hannahstown will create a place where people can thrive for generations to come."