At its monthly meeting held today in Dundalk, Louth County Council has proposed a new development levy contribution scheme which aims to levy fees on all developments in the county. 

The money raised from these fees will be used to help the council pay for local infrastructure such as flood relief, town centre first initiatives, and social infrastructure such as parks and playgrounds.  

Several amendments proposed by Labour Councillor for Drogheda, Emma Cutlip related to reliefs available for certain types of development were accepted by the Chief Executive.  

Councillor Cutlip proposed that relief of 75% be allowed for town centre regeneration projects, developments which fall within the D1 regeneration zones and importantly also for derelict sites.  

Furthermore, Councillor Cutlip proposed an innovative new relief of 50% to be applied to the provision of new Crèche, Childcare, and Early Years Education facilities.  

Cllr Cutlip said “There are buildings literally falling onto the streets of Drogheda and Dundalk and if the council is serious about addressing dereliction, we must take every opportunity to facilitate the renovation of these sites.  

“Furthermore, with population booming across the county, and a crisis in childcare and early years sector, we must take every opportunity to assist the sector, including reducing the costs of building or fitting out premises.