Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 1 December 2022
219. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the extent to which he might provide serviced sites to local authorities at a reasonable cost in an effort to meet the ongoing housing need; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [60058/22]
View answerIn September, I launched the Ready to Build Scheme as part of the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. Under this scheme, local authorities will make serviced sites in towns and villages available at a discounted rate to individual purchasers who will self-build their own home and live in it as their principal private residence.
It is intended that the local authority will either supply existing sites in their control or purchase sites and make them available for development by providing services and access to the sites concerned. The level of discount to the individual will depend on the level of servicing cost incurred by the local authority before the sale of the site but will not exceed €30,000. The amount of such discount will be reflected in the sale price of the site to the purchaser.
All available sites will be advertised on the relevant local authority’s website and / or in relevant local publications along with a closing date for receipt of applications.
As the scheme has recently launched, each local authority has been asked to identify suitable sites for the scheme. My Department will engage with each local authority on receipt of this information.
Applications for the Ready to Build Scheme are to be made to the Vacant Homes Officer in each local authority. They can provide further advice and information in respect of the fund and the application process.
