Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 31 May 1990

Vol. 399 No. 5

Written Answers. - Urban Renewal Scheme.

Mervyn Taylor

Question:

52 Mr. Taylor asked the Minister for the Environment if he will outline the criteria used to select additional areas for inclusion in the urban renewal scheme; the number of jobs expected to be created as a result of the expansion of the scheme; the reasons for excluding certain new town centres in the Dublin area; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. Flynn)

The new urban renewal designated areas announced on 1 May 1990 were selected having regard to criteria such as the extent of urban decay, need for urban renewal/conservation, potential for redevelopment, need for job creation and regional considerations.

Some or all of these considerations figured in the selection of the new designated areas. There was consultation with all the local authorities concerned in finalising details of designations. This consultation process was supplemented by consideration of the development plan of the local planning authority for each area, inspection of the areas by officials of my Department and consideration of representations, where received, from local groups such as chambers of commerce, etc.

I accept that many other areas in Dublin and elsewhere could benefit from the incentives available under the scheme. However, in order to maximise the impact of the scheme designation must be restricted in its application.

It would not be possible at this stage to estimate how many jobs will be created by the extension of the scheme. This will depend on the level of development undertaken by the private sector.