New age-friendly housing scheme opened in County Roscommon

A new age-friendly housing scheme delivering six homes for older people has been opened in Castlerea.

The opening also saw the unveiling of An Craoibhín Aoibhinn, a specially commissioned public artwork by local artist James Gannon, which is located in the development's communal green space.

A partnership between Tuath Housing and Roscommon County Council, The Meadows at Longford, Castlerea, comprises six semi-detached, single-storey two-bedroom homes, funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage through the Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS).

Design was led by TA Group, with Future View Developments employed as main contractor. Construction of the development began in April 2025, with the homes handed over in June 2026.

The development builds on Tuath's long-standing partnership with Roscommon County Council, which has delivered over 135 homes across the county since 2010.

Every home has been designed to help residents live independently for longer, with level access wet rooms, step-free garden access, wide door openings and generous turning circles throughout, plus a second bedroom for an overnight carer if needed.

Each home is A-rated for energy efficiency, using air-to-water heat pumps to keep running costs low.

With residents now in place at The Meadows, a designated housing officer will provide on-site clinics, helping residents connect with local gardaí and community services, alongside a Tuath tenant engagement officer and a new residents' association.

Speaking at the opening the Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr Domnick Connolly said that “as a local authority, the provision of quality housing is at the heart of our work in Roscommon County Council. This is to ensure our citizens enjoy a quality of life they can flourish and enjoy.

“By its nature, sheltered housing supports older individuals who wish to live independently but who may require some support without comprising that independence. In any society, it is very important our older population are protected, cherished and respected. How they are supported is very often a reflection of that society.” 

One of the residents who recently moved into The Meadows noted that the new development “features all the essentials of a modern, energy efficient housing development which will support and enhance the well-being and quality of life that residents who will live in this area”.

A central feature of the scheme is An Craoibhín Aoibhinn (otherwise known as ‘the pleasant little branch’), a hand-carved limestone sculpture by local artist James Gannon, selected through a competition run with Roscommon County Council's Arts Officer under the 1% for Art scheme.

Inspired by Douglas Hyde, Ireland's first President and founder of the Gaelic League, who was born nearby at Longford House, the piece sits in a communal green space open to residents and neighbours alike.

Speaking at the unveiling, Marian Jennings, director of the Board at Tuath Housing pointed out that "The Meadows shows what can be achieved when a local authority and an Approved Housing Body work closely together over the long term.

“These six homes give older residents in Castlerea the chance to live independently, in a home designed around their changing needs, while remaining part of the community they know. Tuath is proud to continue our commitment to Age Friendly housing, building balanced, sustainable communities for people of all ages across Roscommon."