Circle VHA Awarded for ‘More Than Bricks and Mortar!’

Circle VHA (Voluntary Housing Association) was a winner in the ‘Tenant Empowerment’ category at this year’s Chartered Institute of Housing Awards in recognition of its work with the residents of Peadar Kearney House in Dublin 1.

The ‘More than Bricks and Mortar’ award 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 across Ireland.

Peadar Kearney House (PKH) is a development of 56 apartments and townhouses, located on the site of the old Liberty House on Railway Street in Dublin’s north inner city. 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.

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 also shared the news of Circle VHA’s recent success at the prestigious Acquisition International Business Excellence Awards 2018, winning the ‘Housing Association of the Year’ award.

“To be twice recognised for our work in recent months is an incredible achievement for our staff and demonstrates the powerful collaboration that exists between Circle VHA and the communities we work with.”