Public consultation on potential of tax measures to develop zoned land – Coghlan

“The Minister for Finance, Michael Noonan, has launched a public consultation on the potential of tax measures to encourage the development of zoned and serviced land. I would encourage the public to get involved and to contribute to this process”, says Paul Coghlan, Kerry Senator and Government Chief Whip in the Seanad.

“There is no doubt that changes need to be made to put Dublin city centre land, and indeed, zoned and serviced land in other towns and cities throughout the State, to better use.

“I commend the Minister for Finance for raising his budget speech the issue of undeveloped zoned and serviced land.   Having recognised this issue, he has now launched a public consultation on the potential of taxation measures to encourage the development of zoned and serviced land.  

“Interested parties are invited to submit their views on the potential of taxation.   The consultation will run for 12 weeks, until 8^th May 2015.

“What we need is for land to be developed in a way that benefits all and that takes into account sustainability and future needs.   In the interests of many sectors, particularly housing within cities, this needs to happen.

  “In the past initiatives like the Living City were successful in providing for renewal and regeneration. A similar scheme, that could be in place for a limited time, should be considered to put to proper use the zoned and serviced land that is currently lying idle.  

“The sooner this issue is tackled the better and the more people who get involved the better the chance that a well-planned and effective scheme can be established. Again, I would encourage all those who are interested to take part in the consultation process.”