Ballymena flat linked to murder of Chloe Mitchell set for demolition, confirms Housing Executive

The shuttered up James Street flat, and pictured, Chloe Mitchell who was murdered in the property.

The Housing Executive has confirmed that it is progressing plans to demolish the Ballymena flat where 21-year-old Chloe Mitchell was murdered in 2023, following sustained engagement with her family and local representatives.

The young woman’s death deeply shocked the community and led to widespread calls for the property—located in the Harryville area of the town—to be taken down as a mark of respect and to help bring some closure to the grieving family.

In a statement a Housing Executive spokesperson expressed condolences and confirmed the demolition proposal is now under formal consideration by the Department for Communities.

“We are deeply sympathetic to Chloe’s family and we are acutely aware of all the sensitivities around this case,” the spokesperson said.

The Chief Executive of the Housing Executive met with Chloe Mitchell’s family in the autumn of 2023 to offer condolences personally and to listen to their views about the future of the property. Political representatives from the local area were also engaged during this period.

“Our Chief Executive met with family members last Autumn to share condolences with them and hear their views in person.

“We also met with political representatives from the area.”

Following these discussions, the Housing Executive’s Board approved a formal proposal to demolish the flat in December 2024. A business case was subsequently developed and submitted to the Department for Communities, which is currently assessing the proposal.

“Our Board approved our proposal to demolish this property in December and, as is normal practice, a business case has been developed to deliver this demolition.

“As part of the process, the business case has been provided to the Department for Communities who are considering the proposal.”

The Housing Executive confirmed that it remains in contact with Chloe’s family and has committed to ongoing updates as the process continues.

“We met the family earlier this year to outline progress to date and we’ve committed to updating them – and all the local representatives advocating on their behalf – when further information is available.”

Chloe Mitchell’s murder in June 2023 sparked an outpouring of grief across Northern Ireland, with many local residents participating in vigils and tributes. Her case led to a renewed focus on community safety, mental health, and the role of public housing in trauma-sensitive urban planning.

The proposed demolition of the property is seen by many as a step toward healing, not only for Chloe’s loved ones but for the entire Harryville community.