Housing Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 1 July 2015

Wednesday, 1 July 2015

Questions (269)

John Halligan

Question:

269. Deputy John Halligan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the reason for the delay in approving the homes for the elderly scheme in Tramore, County Waterford; if he is aware of the case of persons (details supplied) who have been waiting to be relocated to housing for the elderly for over three years, who currently reside in a four-bedroom property under the rental accommodation scheme and who are eager to relocate to a two-bed bungalow, as they are finding it increasingly difficult to access the upper level of the property and to maintain the property; his views on whether the need for social housing in this area, it would be beneficial all round to have the elderly relocated as soon as possible, which would then free up rental accommodation scheme property for needy families in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26556/15]

Written answers

Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government

The project in question was originally approved by my Department in May 2014 for the development of 8 units of sheltered housing for the elderly, at an estimated cost of €1.153m. There were initial delays in advancing the project due to difficulties with ownership of the site for the development, which I understand are now resolved. However, the approved housing body and Waterford City and County Council have recently sought approval for this project based on developing 18 units of accommodation which will entail a considerably higher cost.

My Department is now finalising a cost assessment of this revised proposal which will be notified to the local authority shortly.