Introduction of single-step approval system aims to boost Galway housing targets
'In order to ensure transparency and accountability with the public, the Department will begin publishing the new-build social housing delivery achieved by all local authorities as set against their targets.'
Between 2022 and 2024, Galway City achieved only 10% of its target of 748 own-build social houses. When accounting for all new-builds, including Local Authority, Approved Housing Bodies, and Part V homes, 467 out of 748 units were delivered, representing a 62% fulfilment rate.
Galway County Cllr Mary Hoade said that these figures prove that the multi-stage process is causing a 'bottleneck', and the transition cannot be done without 'strong oversight' to ensure it is not 'compromised in the pursuit of speed.'
These figures were shared shortly after a Galway County Council plenary meeting where Administrative Officer John Waters updated the council on affordable housing developments. He outlined a vision for future developments comprising approximately 20% social housing and 80% affordable homes
Currently, the approval process combines a four-stage plan and a single-stage process, depending on whether a project exceeds €8 million in cost and delivers more than 25 units. Under the new system, this mixed approach will be replaced entirely by the single-stage approval model.
To further expedite social housing delivery, the changes will include standardised design layouts and specifications incorporating Modern Methods of Construction (MMC). This standardisation is intended to streamline planning and construction, enabling local authorities and approved housing bodies to deliver homes more quickly.
'Streamlining approvals into a single stage may reduce bureaucracy and allow for faster commencement of housing projects. If implemented effectively and accompanied by sufficient resources, this could accelerate the delivery of homes where they are urgently needed.' Said Cllr Hoade.
These new arrangements are expected to take effect in Q3 of this year provided transitional measures proceed as planned.
For residents, much of the process around social housing applications and submissions will remain unchanged. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications in person to Galway City Council to ensure accuracy.
Funded by the Local Democracy reporting Scheme.
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