Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 February 2025
1395. Deputy Michael Cahill asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development to introduce a grants scheme to enhance shop fronts in towns and villages across the country that will also cover a significant proportion of the cost of painting all properties, including derelict properties and private homes (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2581/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department supports vibrant, inclusive and sustainable communities throughout Ireland by delivering a wide range of strategic interventions and investments throughout the country. These are underpinned by the Our Rural Future and Town Centre First policies whose key aim is to breathe new life into rural towns and villages making them thriving places to live, work and raise a family.
The Town and Village Renewal Scheme (TVRS) was introduced in 2016 and is one of a number of measures designed to rejuvenate rural towns and villages. Since the launch of the scheme over €177 million has been allocated to local authorities for almost 1,800 projects. Of this almost €7 million has been allocated to 67 projects in Kerry.
TVRS supports town centre economic and social vibrancy and regeneration and has included a particular focus on town regeneration and enhancing our streetscapes. In April 2024, €20.4 million in funding was allocated for 82 successful projects under the 2023 scheme and this included streetscape enhancement projects. The 2025 Town and Village Renewal Scheme is currently being prepared and it is anticipated that details of the scheme will be launched in the coming months.
The Town Centre First policy has been developed in conjunction with my colleague the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Falling within the parameters of this policy, I would refer to the publication ‘Bringing Back Homes’ which details over 20 incentives, funded measures and grants to support a reversal of housing vacancy and dereliction. Some of the main supports available and provided by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage include the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant under the Croí Conaithe initiative, the Repair and Leasing Scheme, the Buy and Renew Scheme, and the Living City Initiative.
I am committed to ensuring that the range of capital investment schemes operated by my Department will continue to support rural regeneration and local communities.
