Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 27 January 2021
299. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the delivery of social and affordable housing in Poolbeg strategic development zone, SDZ; his views on whether the failure of his Department to purchase land within the SDZ will make the delivery of these homes more difficult or more expensive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3571/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe regeneration of Poolbeg West is the next important step in transforming the Docklands area, given its strategic location east of Grand Canal Dock, with close proximity to important bridge connections to Dublin Port and North Lotts.
In relation to the activation of these lands it is this Department’s understanding that, having decided to embark on the competitive tendering process, on 22 December 2020, the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA) announced the completion of a comprehensive process to select an investment partner for the development of this site within Poolbeg West Strategic Development Zone.
I understand that NAMA has named a consortium of Ronan Group Real Estate (RGRE) and Colony Capital (Colony) as the Preferred Bidder to acquire the 80% shareholding. NAMA will retain a 20% shareholding.
The planning scheme, as modified by An Bord Pleanála on 9th April 2019, states that prior to commencement of development, subject to confirmed funding and value for money considerations, a commercial agreement shall be entered into between Dublin City Council, my Department and the owners/developers of the residential element of the Planning Scheme for the delivery of 15% of the residential units approved on the lands included in this Planning Scheme for social and affordable housing purposes. These units shall be additional to the 10% statutory under Part V arrangements still stands and is applicable.
As NAMA progresses this site, my Department remains ready to work with Dublin City Council, any relevant Approved Housing Bodies and the receiver and/or developers of the SDZ area to progress this site, subject to agreement on all the normal and relevant terms, including value for money aspects.
