Louth County Council to examine 'rightsizing' options for older people

Louth County Council has said that it will look into the idea of 'rightsizing' options for older people in terms of housing in response to a motion from Cllr John Sheridan at the Louth County Council October meeting.

Cllr Sheridan's motion stated that “In line with policy objective HOU 12 of the Louth County Developent Plan 2021-2027, that Louth County Council will explore routes for the provision of 'rightsizing' options for persons over 55 in the county.

“Subject to funding, that Louth County Council engage with relevant stakeholders on providing accommodation opportunities for those aged over 55 who currently own their homes, similar to the 'Private Rightsizing Scheme' launched by Limerick City and County Council this summer.”

In its reply to Cllr Sheridan's motion, Louth County Council said that “The Housing Strategic Policy Committee will examine this issue and how it could align with our current Allocations Scheme.”

Cllr Sheridan stressed at the meeting that he acknowledged issues including the constitutional safeguards of property, as well as sensitivities around succession of farms and those around elder abuse, and they were nothing to do with his motion. He added that he was putting it on the agenda for those who wished to explore the idea of downsizing.