A South-East Clare Councillor claims the expansion of the local authority home loan scheme could be transformational for housing delivery in this county.
It comes as Housing Minister, Darragh O’Brien has received approval from cabinet to expand the initiative to derelict properties.
Clare County Council is currently in receipt of 247 applications for Croí Conaithe funding, under this scheme applicants can receive up to €70,000 to refurbish derelict sites.
However the home loan scheme would allow first-time buyers or those recently separated here to borrow an additional maximum of €270,000.
Clonlara Independent Councillor Michael Begley says every single house counts.
A North Clare Councillor meanwhile claims the scheme can only have the desired effects if wrap around services are provided.
At present 186 people have signalled their intention to the local authority to renovate a derelict home for private use, while a further 61 are hoping to put new houses on the rental market.
Based on the activity so far its estimated that the government could invest €4.5m in derelict and vacant sites in the county.
However Lisdoonvarna Fine Gael Councillor Joe Garrihy says a tailored approach is needed to maximise the benefits here.
You can listen to the full interview below.
