Plan to sell council-owned homes in Limerick town for almost €1m attracts criticism
The properties in Abbeyfeale will be owned and managed by Limerick Twenty Thirty
THE proposed disposal of six council-owned homes in Abbeyfeale to Limerick Twenty Thirty, for just under €1 million, was the subject of debate at the October meeting of Newcastle West Municipal District.
Expressing his concerns, Cllr Michael Collins said there is a risk of creating an “inequitable two-tier system” if the newly-renovated properties are placed on the private rental market rather than being added to the council’s social housing stock.
The previously-derelict properties, which were compulsory acquired by the local authority, are to be used under a cost-recovery rental model which could see thousands of council-owned homes being used as money makers on the private market.
Under the model, supported by Mayor John Moran, the properties will be owned and managed by Limerick Twenty Thirty with rental income being used to fund future housing developments.
The disagreement arose during a discussion around a motion submitted by Cllr Liam Galvin, who requested a detailed update on housing developments in Abbeyfeale.
“I am willing to give the mayor’s scheme a chance. These are grade A houses that need to be filled ASAP. The private rental market in Abbeyfeale is crying out for houses.”
It’s hoped the new homes will be completed by the end of this year.
Senior Executive Officer Sarah Newell defended the proposal: “The advantage with this model is that we don't lose the money spent retrofitting the homes and can invest the surplus back into other projects.”
Cllr John Sheahan questioned the duplication, pointing out that the council already acts as “landlords collecting rent”. He asked: ‘Where is the value for money in that?”
“I want to see people in those houses but this hasn't been thought out well enough.”
Cllr Francis Foley suggesting there be a workshop to review the proposal.