Drogheda Greens have welcomed the ‘Vacancy Dereliction and Regeneration Bill 2022’ which was launched today (22nd February) by Steven Matthews TD, Green Party Spokesperson for Planning and Local Government, and Chair of the Oireachtas Housing and Planning Committee.
Green Party Rep for Drogheda Rural, Anthony Murphy Said:
“Housing is one of the most critical issues in Ireland at the moment. There are at least 90,000 vacant homes left idle across the country and our villages, towns, and cities are blighted with neglected and derelict buildings. Drogheda has been hit more than most with a hollowing out of our town centre.
“Under this Bill, homes that are vacant for at least 180 days in the preceding year, would be subject to a new vacant home tax at 3% of the market value of the property, to be collected by revenue as part of the local property tax. This will be repaid to the local authority where the vacant property lies, this in turn, would fund housing needs in Louth”
The tax would not apply to the principal private residence of the owner and includes a number of key exemptions, including if an owner is in care; if the occupant has moved temporarily for work purposes; if the property is a holiday home; or if the property is undergoing major renovations. An initiative introduced in Vancouver has seen a 25% decrease in vacant property since introducing similar tax measures in 2017.
Deputy Matthews said:
“We need to reimagine our existing built environment to create vibrant, liveable villages and towns that will also bring jobs and enhance security and safety. The Green Party is committed to rejuvenating our towns, villages and cities and ensuring they are fit for purpose for individuals and families to live, work and play. In addition to addressing vacant property, this bill also simplifies the planning process and makes it easier for ‘over the shop’ units to be brought back into residential use. This bill is in line with the objectives for the Government Housing for All and Town Centres First strategies.”
The Vacancy, Dereliction and Regeneration Bill 2022 can be downloaded here. A one-page memo outlining the bill is available here.
