Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 31 May 1994

Vol. 443 No. 4

Written Answers. - Urban Renewal.

Paul McGrath

Question:

113 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment in view of the fact that the introduction of the concept of designated streets is aimed at encouraging increased residential occupation in town and city centres, if the Government has established minimum proportions of street development; and if so, the minimum proportion of street development in each urban area.

Paul McGrath

Question:

114 Mr. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment in view of the introduction of the new scheme or urban renewal relief, the guidelines, if any, which he has established to determine the proportion of development which will come under the heading of designated streets; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for the Environment (Mr. M. Smith)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 113 and 114 together.

The new urban renewal scheme, which will commence on 1 August 1994, will include, on a pilot basis, a new scheme aimed at encouraging living over the business premises in three streets in each of the five county boroughs. The streets concerned will be designated as soon as possible. Under the pilot scheme, taxation incentives will be available in respect of the refurbishment and conversion of existing buildings for residential purposes, and in cases where such refurbishment or conversion is being carried out, tax allowances will also be available in respect of the commercial part of the premises.