b'.The County at the last census has the youngest population in the state. This affects all services particularly social and community Social related tenancies up 18% (2011-2016)infrastructure such as housing, open spaces, Direct Social Housing 6% (Nat Avg 9.4%)play facilities, age-specific social inclusionprojects, community buildings and libraries.3rd highest no. of private rented households4,000 in receipt of social rent supportAt the other end of the spectrum the populationHighest house costs outside Dublin & Wicklowover 65 is up by 32% in 5 years and now makes up 10% of our population. A focus upon age friendly projects and accessibility in towns and villagesThe Council will continue to strategically manage must address this so all citizens can safely its assets in the form of managing vacancy rates, participate in normal economic and socialservicing zoned land to address the pressureactivities. upon housing in the County, and increase supply While the housing vacancy rate reduced by overthrough initiatives such as LIHAF and delivering 25% in the period 2011-16, a changing and our Capital and Leasing Programme. The Councils growing population places pressure upon the Housing Strategy 2017-2023 will be revisited in thevolume and type of housing options we mustlifetime of this Plan and will be reflected indeliver. It is apparent that is it not only our youngupdated supporting strategies in the Corporate and growing population that will place demandsPlan as required. The countys population growth on housing solutions. The Countys socio-will require significantly increased housingeconomic profile is a major factor, that will development. It is imperative that in meeting this continue to place massive pressures on the demand that standards are maintained. Councils need to build and maintain socialhousing, and continue to offer the services needed to our tenants31'