Housing policy changes in Northern Ireland – Q3 2024

As we reach the end of the third quarter of 2024, it’s an opportune moment to review significant housing policy developments affecting Northern Ireland. This update covers key issues such as the draft Programme for Government, recent changes in smoke alarm regulations, the response to rising hate crimes, and the arrival of the new UK government.

Here’s a full digest for CIH members.

Programme for Government 

The release of the draft Programme for Government marks a pivotal moment for housing policy in Northern Ireland. Housing is presented as a standalone priority, underscoring its importance in addressing both social and economic challenges. This is a major achievement for the sector, following sustained advocacy by key organisations including CIH. 

The draft proposes several ambitious measures, including enabling the Housing Executive to borrow funds, tackling critical water infrastructure issues, and advancing the Housing Supply Strategy with increased new-build targets. Additionally, there are plans to reform the private rented sector and enhance retrofitting efforts to achieve net-zero emissions. 

While these proposals represent a promising start, the effectiveness will largely depend on detailed departmental plans and adequate funding. Multi-annual budgets are crucial for ensuring sustainable progress. The ongoing consultation, which runs until 4 November, presents an opportunity for members to influence these priorities.

The draft Programme for Government includes proposals to increase the numbers of new-build homes (Cr: Irene Miller/Shutterstock)

Capital budget allocation 

The capital budget allocation for new social housing has been a point of contention, with the Department for Communities receiving an inadequate amount for 2024-25. CIH Northern Ireland submitted feedback to the equality impact assessment (EQIA), highlighting the adverse effects of the underfunding – including a 73 per cent drop in the number of new social homes this year – and advocating for additional resources. 

The government has since announced an extra £20 million for social housing, which we have welcomed. However, there remains a significant gap, and we continue to push for further allocations and a multi-annual budget to ensure long-term stability. 

CIH Northern Ireland’s Agenda for Change 

CIH Northern Ireland has launched a crucial report, ‘An Agenda for Change: Tackling the Housing and Homelessness Crisis.’ This report outlines strategic priorities, focusing on achieving net-zero housing, securing sustainable capital financing, and addressing infrastructure constraints. Notably, Northern Ireland lacks a dedicated housing decarbonisation fund, a situation that the report highlights as “critical”. It calls for increased investment in energy-efficient homes and reversing budget cuts to expand the social housing development programme. 

Additionally, the report points to the need for structural reforms within Northern Ireland Water to facilitate housing development. CIH Northern Ireland has urged ministers for immediate action on these issues. The responses from the ministers for communities and infrastructure acknowledge these concerns and outline steps being taken. 

Response to racist attacks 

In response to the rise in racist and Islamophobic attacks, CIH has joined over 240 organisations in signing a joint statement issued by Together With Refugees. This coalition condemns the recent violence and calls for immediate action to protect individuals in asylum accommodation, refugee service centres, and places of worship. 

The statement advocates for a shift away from divisive politics towards a more compassionate approach, emphasising solidarity with affected communities and the need to rebuild trust. 

Rates revenue raising measures 

The Department of Finance released a consultation report summarising the feedback collected from its public consultation on rates revenue raising measures, which ran from 7 November 2023 to 13 February 2024. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the responses received, including on the landlord allowance. 

Out of 1,177 responses, 609 supported retaining the allowance, while 568 opposed it. 

New smoke alarm laws 

As of 1 September 2024, new regulations have been introduced for smoke alarms in private rental properties across Northern Ireland. The updated laws require smoke detectors in the most frequently used room for daytime living, every circulation space, and heat alarms in kitchens. Carbon monoxide alarms must be installed in rooms with combustion appliances. 

This legislation aims to enhance fire safety, particularly as students settle into new rented homes. Communities minister Gordon Lyons has emphasised that these measures are designed to protect tenants and clarify landlord responsibilities, aiming to reduce injuries, save lives, and minimise property damage. 

New UK government 

The recent election of a new UK government brings potential implications for housing policy in Northern Ireland. We analysed Northern Ireland party manifestos and their implications for non-devolved housing issues. 

Following the election, we congratulated Hilary Benn on his appointment as secretary of state for Northern Ireland. His response indicated a willingness to continue collaborating with CIH, and the organisation looks forward to working with the new government to advocate for effective housing policies and adequate funding across the UK.

Main image: Justin Cartwright presenting to 'Agenda for Change' report to Stormont