Dáil Éireann Debate, Monday - 11 September 2023
587. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to provide an update on the progress of the strategic IDA land purchase in Castlebar, as well as the status of when planning permission for the new ABS project will be lodged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39053/23]
View answerIDA Ireland’s Regional Property Programme aims to ensure the supply of land, buildings and infrastructure in regional locations to meet the needs of current and prospective clients of the IDA, Enterprise Ireland and Local Enterprise Offices and is a significant driver of regional economic development and job creation.
A robust property and infrastructure ecosystem can be a key differentiator in winning FDI projects, as evidenced by the record regional results achieved under IDA’s 2015-2019 strategy and its current strategy - Driving Recovery and Sustainable Growth, 2021-2024.
The provision of property solutions is a key element in IDA’s marketing of Mayo and the West Region. In that regard IDA, as part of the Regional Property Programme, has delivered an Advance Technology Building to Castlebar which has been occupied by Meissner Filtration Products who announced 150 jobs in 2019.
IDA Ireland has committed to build a second Advance Technology Building in Castlebar to support the winning of new investment. An extensive site selection process for the new building is well underway. The acquisition of appropriate lands has proven challenging in this location and IDA continues to explore all possible options to identify and secure suitable lands aligned with investor needs. The site selection process is commercially sensitive until a land acquisition has been completed.
On conclusion of site selection, the design and planning phases will commence. The specific dates for commencement of construction are wholly dependent on and subject to the successful outcome of these processes. IDA will use its best endeavours to deliver the building in a timely manner. IDA Ireland has had regular engagement with Mayo County Council on its plans.
IDA continues to work with regional stakeholders and the private sector on opportunities to add to the supply of competitive property solutions in regional locations.
