Councillor highlights issue 'holding back' Mayo housing delivery
Mayo County Council has pledged to address a number of issues raised in an audit report.
Staff shortages are holding back the delivery of housing in Mayo, a local councillor has said.
Cllr Richard Finn said at last week’s meeting of Claremorris-Swinford Municipal District that Mayo County Council is very capable of delivering “shovel-ready” projects but it lacks the staff to consistently bring projects forward.
“The council takes flak for its provision of houses but lots could be brought to shovel-ready stage if the staff is there and that is holding back our progress,” he said. “There is money available provided the structure is in place and the Government needs to ensure staff is provided, including planning staff, architects, and everyone involved."
He added that private housing projects should be fast-tracked to help meet the demand for housing.
“There has been a slowdown in regard to private housing. Projects put forward should be fast-tracked rather than rigorous processes. We need to ensure our planning process brings out the best in forwarding projects.”
Cllr John Caulfield supported his comments.
“Undoubtedly there is a need for extra staff. Funding is not a problem for the Department, staffing is."
- Published as part of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
