A Laois TD says that the new Ready to Build Scheme will provide further housing options for people in Laois who wish to build their own home.
The scheme was launched last week and Deputy Charlie Flanagan says it will support an additional two thousand new-build homes to be delivered by 2025.
Deputy Flanagan said: “This is a really positive new scheme which will see fully serviced sites made available by Laois County Council at a discount, to those who wish to build their own home.
“This is in line with the Fine Gael priority of supporting home ownership and providing options to those who wish to put down roots within their communities.
“The Ready to Build Scheme is aimed at the 500 towns in Ireland that have a population of 400 or more.
“Applicants can be first time buyers or individuals selling their home as they want to relocate to a town or village.
“The scheme must be used to build an applicant’s principal private residence and is not open to builders/developers.”
Housing for All commits to provide social, affordable and cost rental housing as well as supporting the right of rural dwellers to build a home close to their family, place of work or agri-business.
Deputy Flanagan continued: “This scheme supports that right, by funding Laois County Council to make sites available in towns and villages with the necessary electricity, water and wastewater and sell them to individuals and families at a discount.
“The Ready to Build Scheme also supports our Town Centre First policy which aims to tackle vacancy, combat dereliction and breathe fresh life into our town centres.
“I know from talking to constituents that there is a real desire from many in our rural areas to build their own home, and the Ready to Build Scheme can provide an opportunity to do just this.”
The Ready to Build Scheme complements the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Grant announced in July, by giving prospective homeowners a grant of up to €30,000 (€50,000 if derelict) for the refurbishment of a vacant town property for occupation as a principal private residence.
Ready to Build Scheme applicants must apply for planning permission within three months of buying the site and building works must commence within 12 months of receipt of planning permission. All available sites will be advertised on the council’s website and local papers.
“The Ready to Build Scheme is another opportunity for families to live in the communities they know, are proud to be from and want to raise their family in,” concluded Deputy Flanagan.
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