Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 26 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 8

Written Answers. - Urban Renewal Scheme.

Jim Mitchell

Question:

89 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will agree to meet the local TDs and city councillors in Inchicore, Dublin 8 before the end of March 1998 to inspect the village so that he would be in a better position to understand the compelling and urgent case for urban renewal designation and an integrated action plan under the next tranche of designation due later in 1998 in view of the dilapidated condition of the village (details supplied). [5353/98]

Jim Mitchell

Question:

90 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will give details in relation to the new procedures and timescale for granting urban renewal designation; the way in which the severely run down suburban village of Inchicore within Dublin city, without a local council of its own, can go about making a submission for urban renewal designation; the criteria involved and any other relevant details. [5354/98]

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment and Local Government (Mr. Molloy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 89 and 90 together.

Designations under the new urban renewal scheme which is due to come into operation on 1 August 1998 will be considered on the basis of integrated area plans prepared by local authorities for areas of greatest priority in urban renewal terms. Guidelines for the new scheme set out the criteria which local authorities are asked to use in the selection of areas for integrated area plans and provide guidance on the content of these plans. A copy of these guidelines is available in the Library.

Taking account of the guidelines, it is a matter for Dublin Corporation to decide on the areas in Dublin city for which integrated area plans are to be prepared. Widespread consultation with local partners and participation by local communities is a vital part of the plan preparation process. The specified deadline for the submission of plans to my Department is 31 March next. A broadly based expert advisory panel which I established last year will assess the integerated area plans when received and make recommendations to me in relation to the designation of areas for tax incentives.

If and when an integrated area plan is submitted by Dublin Corporation in respect of the Inchicore area, the Deputy can be assured that it will be carefully assessed by reference to the established criteria under the process which I have established. As an integrated area plan for this area has not, as yet, been submitted by the corporation, the question of a meeting as referred to in the question does not arise.