Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 May 2023
344. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the extent to which funding can be made available to meet the needs of the affordable housing sector; if consideration has been given or will be given to the introduction of the subsided site scheme such as previously has been available to local authorities in order to accelerate access to houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23990/23]
View answerPathway 4 of Housing for All sets out a blueprint to address vacancy and make efficient use of our existing housing stock. Many areas of cities, towns and villages of all sizes face the blight of vacant properties, which, if brought back into use, could add real vibrancy and provide new accommodation in those areas. The Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund is a key initiative which underpins these policy objectives set out in Pathway Four of Housing for All.
Last September, I launched the Ready to Build Scheme. 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.
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.
My Department is currently engaging with local authorities in respect of the identification of potential sites to determine their suitability under the Ready to Build scheme.
