To ask the Minister for Communities to provide (i) an update on the remodeling programme for large-scale congregate hostels; and (ii) a timeline for the work on this programme.

This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and as such I have been advised that:

“The Housing Executive’s Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation 2022-27 contains an action to work with providers and Supporting People on a remodelling programme for large-scale congregate hostels.

The Housing Executive has conducted an analysis of Supporting People funded homeless hostels and has formed a steering group with Supporting People and a provider of one of Northern Ireland’s largest hostels which is considering options for the remodelling of the service.

The remodelling of large-scale congregate hostels is likely to extend beyond the period of the current Action Plan. There are several factors which will affect the timeframe for remodelling, such as demand for temporary accommodation, budget availability, design processes and, where required, the availability of suitable, alternative properties and planning approvals.”

For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.