asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware of the disappointment felt in Donabate at his decision not to approve of the Ballymastore housing site and that at Portrane acquired from the Portrane Mental Hospital Committee; and, if so, whether he will reconsider his decision in this matter, particularly since the housing needs of the area are acute.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - County Dublin Housing.
The proposal to acquire the site at Ballymastore has been very carefully examined by my Department. The proposed scheme would result in a colony of 26 houses, including eight existing houses adjoining the site, without either water or sewerage services. It was considered, therefore, that the scheme should be sited as an extension to the existing village where water and sewerage services could be economically installed when those services were provided in Donabate. The council were informed accordingly and it was suggested that a survey of the actual housing needs of the area should be carried out, provision for a scheme to be made based on the result of that survey. Inquiry was also made as to the possibility of making a temporary water supply available in Donabate and providing sewerage services. The council's reply is awaited.
In regard to the site at Portrane, I am awaiting information from the council as to the estimated cost of the proposed housing scheme, the type of scheme proposed, and the question of water and sewerage facilities. On receipt of the information a decision will be expedited.
asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that housing sites were noted for acquisition in Castleknock, Clonsilla, Porterstown and Blanchardstown about two years ago, and whether he will ensure that building work is speeded up as the housing needs in the area are acute.
I understand that housing sites in these areas were noted for acquisition some time ago, but that in common with other proposed sites in County Dublin the council endeavoured to acquire by agreement in the first instance. A survey of the actual housing needs of these areas is now in progress and on the result of this will depend the number of sites to be included in a compulsory purchase order which will be made and submitted for confirmation at an early date.