Something dramatic may be happening in the area of housing. Or then again, it may not. Vested interests are concerned that the use of modular housing by local authorities in response to a rising level of homelessness in Dublin could free up bottlenecks, reduce prices and challenge entrenched social divisions. The Government has committed to providing 500 modular homes in the region – half in Dublin city – for homeless families. Tenders have been invited for a group of two-storey, three-bedroom homes due to be completed before Christmas at Ballymun.
Speed of construction is one of the most attractive features of modular homes. But they have other major benefits. Their energy rating is better than traditional homes. They are cheaper. And fewer skilled workers are required on site because they are fabricated, complete with lighting, plumbing and other amenities, at the factory. A lack of public awareness of these advantages, coupled with traditional bias against ‘temporary accommodation’ has frozen modular homes out of the housing market. That may be changing.
When modular housing was first suggested as an emergency response, more than a year ago, city councillors objected. A plan for 200 homes was shelved. Now, following a dramatic rise in the number of homeless families and a public display of quality, single-story homes, attitudes have changed. There are, however, serious concerns about the sites chosen. They are all in working class areas and ignore planning guidelines that advocate the development of mixed and balanced communities. The location of a further group of 250 homes in Dublin council areas should address that issue.
A decision by Dublin City officials to invite tenders for two-storey homes, following a public display of single-storey structures, appears odd. It may indicate a willingness to consider their future use as standard, public housing. Certainly there is a demand for speed, quality and affordability in responding to a growing demand for living accommodation in Dublin. Old ways are not always the best.