The Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council has defended a decision which means that people looking to build homes in rural areas will pay higher planning fees than in towns and villages.
That’s despite the anger which has been expressed over the two-tiered system of development contributions.
Clare FM’s Fiona McGarry reports:
Local authorities have the option to introduce development contributions, in order to raise money for local services.
And when Clare’s County Development Plan was adopted earlier this year, it included the provision that these charges would be implemented here.
But at that stage there was a difference of over 2,000 euro between the fee in rural areas, and those in towns, resulting in anger amongst some Councillors who raised concerns.
That led to a debate on the issue this week, in which a vote was taken to cut the rural fee, but not to the extent that it would be equalised.
Even after this vote, there will be a difference of over 600 euro.
Lisseycasey FF Councillor PJ Kelly believes there should be one figure for the whole county.
But the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council has defended the move.
Fellow Fianna Fáil Councillor Tom McNamara says it’s vital that these funds are collected, and he says the differing rates are needed.
