THE property market in Enniskillen is in line for a massive residential boost with over 500 new homes in the pipeline.
A number of new housing developments are set to transform Enniskillen with at least 500 houses and 21 apartments to be built within the town boundary. Among the new housing schemes is a major development of 122 houses at the Old Rectory Site on the Derrylin Road, while 95 new homes are to be built on the unused land opposite the junction of Tempo Road and Old Tempo Road.
The new houses are expected to address growing demand, provide a massive boost for the town and the provision of hundreds of construction jobs.
While the boost to the property market has been welcomed, concerns have been raised about the level of demand for these houses. There are also concerns that the big spike in new housing will add to the county town’s serious traffic congestion.
Speaking to the Herald, Enniskillen councillor Paul Blake, pictured right, said, “We do not want to see a repeat of the past where we have too many houses, not enough demand and the property market going under.
“This is a massive amount of houses and I hope that anyone who is planning on building in Enniskillen knows that there is demand for them, and has done their research. We do not want a situation where houses are built and people do not buy them or can’t afford them and they are left lying empty.
“We have also seen situations around Fermanagh where some estates have not been finished so we need to ensure these developments are completed if they are going to be built.”
The other housing schemes include 115 houses on the Coa Road while 64 new houses are planned for a site at Cherry Dale on the Tempo Road.
A further major development has been proposed for the Dublin Road which includes the erection of 18 houses and a block of 21 apartments while 87 houses are close to completion the Derrygonnelly Road.
The majority of these developments are currently subject to planning approval from the Council.
Sara Boyd, of Turning Point Property Sales in Enniskillen believes the new housing will be positive for Enniskillen. “New housing is always received well and there is a strong demand from first time buyers in particular, who are attracted to a turn key finish.
“New housing developments are always welcome within the local market place as they have wider positive impact upon the local economy primarily creating jobs which in return supports families and other local businesses.
“As time progresses there will be continually an increased need for new housing and proposed plans for these new houses within the Enniskillen area will be staged over a certain period of time so that supply does not out strip demand.”
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