Circle Voluntary Housing Association has scooped the ‘More than Bricks and Mortar’ Award at the Chartered Institute of Housing Awards 2018 in recognition of its work with the residents of Peadar Kearney House in Dublin 1.
Representatives from Circle VHA and Peadar Kearney House were in attendance at the Titanic Belfast to pick up the coveted award.
‘More than Bricks and Mortar’ recognises a demonstrated commitment to tenant empowerment and to improving opportunities for delivering real change within a community. Circle VHA was shortlisted from more than 30 entrants from across the island of Ireland.
Located on the site of the old Liberty House on Railway Street in the north inner city, Peadar Kearney House (PKH) is a development of 56 apartments and townhouses.
It was built following a long campaign by local people to renovate their old estate and is managed by Circle VHA on behalf of Dublin City Council.
Circle VHA has worked closely with the tenants to ensure that the high standards of the development are maintained, meeting with tenants regularly and respond quickly to issues as they arise.
Commenting, chief executive of Circle VHA, John Hannigan said: “Peadar Kearney House is a powerful example of urban regeneration at its best. We have been innovative in our approach and have developed a partnership with the tenants’ association that has inspired a dedication to delivering measurable benefits for the community as a whole.
Together, we have developed a safe scheme with great community spirit, helping the tenants there to overcome social problems in the surrounding area. As a result, they now live in a safe and secure environment.
Circle VHA staff have been very impressed by the ownership of the development demonstrated by the tenants. All have benefited by the housing body and the tenant group having an equally positive impact on each other.”
He added: “This award is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our staff, our Board and most importantly, the tenants of Peadar Kearney House. They are the community and they make it a place that feels like home.
“We are delighted to have worked in partnership with our tenants on the development and on the submission for this Award, which the judges said was one of the best in the competition overall. We thank all at Peader Kearney House for their collaboration and commitment to their community.”
