The number of homeless people in the North increased sharply in just six months, it was revealed today.
The Housing Executive said the number of homeless households increased by 13 per cent from 4,244 to 4,782 between April and September last year.
Paramilitary intimidation has influenced the statistics in the past, but it is understood the latest increase is linked to family and relationship breakdowns.
Housing Executive Chairman Brian Rowntree said: "Although the number of people who are homeless has levelled off in recent years, the most recent figures show a sharp increase in the last six months."
Research also disclosed more than a quarter of homes are occupied by single people while a growing number of householders are of pensionable age.
At the same time, booming property prices have led to a fall in the percentage of homes being sold to first time buyers — from 60 per cent in 2001 to 30 per cent in 2004.
The review concluded the housing requirements of an ageing population have to be met by the adaptation of existing stock or by new builds. At the same time, issues such as access to local amenities, health care and transport have to be addressed.
It also said an increase in the number of homes will be needed to cope with the growth in the number of households, including those who are homeless and in urgent housing need.
But the report suggested a reduction in the average size of properties may be necessary to cope with the increasing numbers living alone.