Vol. 481 No. 4
32 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the current cost of refurbishing the houses, known as low-cost houses, built during the 1970's; the current cost of refurbishing each unit; the number which have been refurbished; and the numbers still remaining and needing refurbishment. [16277/97]
Houses built by local authorities in the 1960s and 1970s which have proved to be substandard are among the categories of houses for the refurbishment of which funding is provided under the remedial works scheme. About 6,400 such dwellings have been refurbished at a cost of some £80 million giving an average unit cost of £12,500 for works undertaken. Work is under way or applications have been received in respect of a further 4,200 units; there may be additional units for which applications have not so far been made by local authorities.
33 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government the current position in relation to the redevelopment of the Ballymun housing estate and the demolition of the tower and spine blocks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16282/97]
The redevelopment of the Ballymun estate, including demolition of the tower and spine blocks and their replacement with new housing, is to be carried out as part of an integrated strategic plan for the economic and social regeneration of the Ballymun area as a whole. In June 1997 Dublin Corporation established a new company, Ballymun Regeneration Limited, which has responsibility for the preparation and implementation of the strategic plan. The board of the company has an independent chairman and includes an equal number of representatives of the elected members of Dublin Corporation, senior officials of the corporation and the local community. The Eastern Health Board, the Ballymun Area Partnership and the private sector are also represented.
I understand that, following public advertisements, the company has engaged consultants to assist in the preparation of the strategic plan on which work has commenced. The phasing of the demolition of the tower and spine blocks and their replacement with new housing will be addressed in that process which will include extensive consultation with, and the involvement of, the local community.
