Huge concerns have been raised following the news that several families are to be evicted from the Ballymacool housing estate in Letterkenny, in part to make way for a new development there.
It’s believed at least five houses are being put up for sale by the landlord who owns them, meaning at least three families will be left homeless – but it is believed that tally could rise further.
Eviction orders were handed out this week, and the families in question now only have until April to find new accomodation for themselves.
It’s locally understood the landlord wishes to sell the five properties in question, in part to fund a proposed new 52-house development at the Forest in Ballymacool.
Planning permission was sought for the development last month in the name of Phil Boyle, with architect Patrick O’Connor also involved in the project.
The properties are to be developed by Twins Estates Ltd.
The Ballymacool Residents Association says they understand all 52 new properties will also be rentals, and not for sale.
One resident who is set to be evicted due to the sale told Donegal Daily that he is a part-time worker, and that his partner stays at home to take care of their two children, aged under 18 years old.
“Our income is not (close enough) to rent a property these days when it costs €1,300 a month to rent, and you must be lucky to win the ‘casting’ while trying to rent some property if there are any available, so basically we will become homeless, same as every other family and other children affected by the actions taken by the owner of these houses.”
The resident continued, saying “my kids here have friends, the ability to go to the park, they know the estate, they have their own environment around them so it will affect them too. It will put the children under stress, just as myself and my partner and every single parent will be affected by this in every possible way, especially during this time where there’s a big problem at the renting market. People are devastated and I’m looking for help now as soon as possible.”
The resident in question also told Donegal Daily that he has contacted Donegal County Council for assistance, and has been on their housing waiting list for some time.
