Approval in principle for a development of social homes by an approved housing body (AHB), at the location in question, was given a number of years ago, but the project did not proceed.
Funding not utilised on a particular project is not ring-fenced if the project does not proceed. However, it is open to the local authority or an AHB to bring forward a new proposal for any such project.
Obviously any new proposal, if differently structured, would need to be assessed on its own merits. If it is brought forward by an AHB, it would be a matter for the local authority in the first place, to assess the proposal in terms of need, value for money, etc.
In general, my Department is supportive of viable social housing proposals which are implementable, represent good value for money and are supported by the local authority.