Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 September 2020
16. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Community and Rural Development and the Islands if specific measures will be introduced to assist in the upgrading of vacant premises to provide living accommodation in smaller towns and villages in rural communities in view of the fact such investment could contribute substantially to the regeneration of these communities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24334/20]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government contains a number of commitments to develop a Town Centre First policy, including a commitment for an expanded Town and Village Renewal Scheme to bring vacant and derelict buildings back into use and promote residential occupancy.
In October 2018, my Department launched a Town Centre Living Initiative to explore in a holistic way how to encourage increased residential occupancy in rural towns and villages. The pilot focused on 6 towns with different characteristics in different parts of the country.
An independent report on the pilot Town Centre Living Initiative was published on 22nd June 2020. The report outlines the approach taken by each town under the pilot and sets out the key issues identified to encourage increased town centre living and the repurposing of vacant properties for residential purposes.
It highlights the importance of Local Authorities consulting with local communities and property owners on town centre development proposals, and the value of developing a shared vision or master plan for the town.
The report, which is available on the Gov.ie website, highlights the multiplicity of factors that need to be addressed which cut across a number of Government Departments and agencies.
An interdepartmental Steering Group is now being established to examine the suggestions in the report in further detail with a view to bringing forward a set of proposals to Government for consideration.
