Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 December 2021
105. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the measures that are in place to support the refurbishment of vacant properties in rural communities; the way ease of access for persons is ensured within funding streams such as the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and the town and village renewal schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [60147/21]
View answerThe revitalisation of vacant and derelict properties is being addressed by a number of initiatives delivered by my Department in line with the commitments contained in Our Rural Future and as part of the Government's Housing for All.
In April, I announced investment of €81 million for 25 landmark projects under Category 1 of the RRDF These projects will combat dereliction, increase the vibrancy of rural towns and villages, and regenerate town centre buildings. In the terms of access to the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund (RRDF), the lead party to an application must be a State-funded body and typically projects tend to be larger scale projects.
I have also announced funding of €15 million that is available under the 2021 Town & Village Renewal Scheme. A key focus of this year’s scheme is to renovate derelict and vacant buildings in our town centres, including for residential living. I have increased the maximum grant available under the Scheme to €500,000 to permit projects of additional scale to be funded. I expect to announce the successful projects shortly.
In relation to access to the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, local authorities invite expressions of interest from local community groups in the first instance. Projects are assessed locally and then selected projects are submitted to my Department for competitive evaluation.
