Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2017
1711. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the supports available from his Department for owners of buildings in regional and rural towns in which the full building is not being used for commercial or residential purposes and could be used for housing if the upper stories of the building could be renovated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37276/17]
View answerThe Government’s Action Plan for Rural Development contains a number of measures which have the objective of rejuvenating Ireland’s rural towns and villages to make them more attractive places in which to live and work, and to increase their tourism potential.
An enhanced Town and Village Renewal Scheme was launched on 13th April last, with a focus on improving the economic development of our rural towns and villages. It is envisaged that this scheme will support up to 300 towns and villages over the next 12 months.
My officials have separately been examining the potential for developing a pilot scheme to encourage residential occupancy in rural towns and villages. The pilot will consider ways in which properties that are currently not in use in town centres can be renovated to allow them to be used for residential purposes. This will help to rejuvenate town centres while also helping to contribute to the housing needs of individuals.
The initiative is being developed in consultation with relevant Departments.
