ABSTRACT
With the prospect of peace Belfast is enjoying rejuvenation and housing schemes are springing up all around. But housing is a contentious issue in Northern Ireland. Neighbourhoods earmarked for redevelopment resist to protect sectarian and territorial boundaries, private investors steer clear of the derelict and threatening no-go areas, and consultation processes can be long and drawn out. As a result there has been little scope for innovation and new development has been conventional and cautious. Parkmount (see Figure 8.1) is one of several projects underway in the city that is helping to reverse the trend. The scheme will provide modern, energy-efficient and healthy homes for young and low-income households. A principal aim is to make good use of solar energy.
