Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 2003

Vol. 571 No. 1

Written Answers. - Local Authority Charges.

Arthur Morgan

Question:

1312 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment Heritage and Local Government if there are changes planned to the current system whereby local authorities charge development contributions in respect of community development facilities and road improvements to persons subsequent to the granting of planning permission for domestic dwellings; if there is a planned change from charging a standard amount for all dwellings in a local authority area to a system whereby the amount charged will depend on the floor area of that proposed dwelling; if so, the nature of the mechanism whereby the rate will be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21028/03]

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. Cullen)

The development contribution system has been significantly revised in the Planning and Development Act 2000, increasing its flexibility and the range of public infrastructure to include also community facilities, landscaping and public transport infrastructure provided by or on behalf of a planning authority. Under section 48, each planning authority must draw up a development contribution scheme in respect of public infrastructure and facilities provided by, or on behalf of the local authority that benefit development in the area by 10 March 2004. The scheme may make provision for payment of different contributions in respect of different classes or descriptions of development. Each planning authority will determine the mechanism to establish the rate as appropriate to its area. The scheme is adopted by elected members after a period of public consultation.

Question No. 1313 answered with Question No. 1277