Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 20 June 2017
67. Deputy Martin Heydon asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the way in which the 2017 town and village renewal scheme will differ from the 2016 scheme; when she expects to announce successful applicants under the 2017 scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27572/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 2017 Town and Village Renewal Scheme was launched on 13th April last, with a focus on improving the economic development of our rural towns and villages. Funding of €20 million has been made available under the scheme which will support up to 300 towns and villages over the next 12 months.
This year’s initiative builds on the 2016 scheme, including feedback from stakeholders, and a number of changes have been introduced to strengthen its impact.
The categories of eligible towns will remain unchanged, with a focus on towns and villages with a population of less than 10,000. However, the selection of projects will be by means of a national competitive process. Local Authorities have been instructed to advertise for expressions of interest from towns and villages who wish to be considered for funding.
Applications are particularly encouraged from projects which have clear positive economic impacts on a town or village, or which stimulate economic activity between a town and its neighbouring townlands. Projects which demonstrate leveraging of, or linkages with, complementary schemes operated by other Departments or agencies in areas such as tourism, heritage or business supports will also be favourably considered.
Timeframes in which to prepare applications have been extended, but projects must be in a position to commence during 2017 and be completed by mid-2018. Funding will issue in two tranches: 50% of the total allocation will be paid when a minimum of 20% of the total project cost has been expended, and the remainder will be paid on satisfactory completion of the project.
Funding is also available under the scheme for art works to enhance public spaces, as part of one or more project proposals submitted by each Local Authority.
The objective of these, and other changes which have been introduced this year, is to achieve greater impact from the investment in the Town and Village Renewal Scheme. The closing date for receipt of applications through the Local Authorities is 30th June. The assessment of applications will commence immediately after this date, with the objective of announcing the successful applicants by the end of July.
