Developers at the seminar were encouraged to collaborate with the local authorities on future housing schemes and were informed about the latest regulatory frameworks and funding mechanisms supporting affordable housing initiatives.
Cllr Albert Dolan, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, commented, “Galway, like other counties across the country, has experienced increased demand for affordable housing in recent years. Therefore, the need for key stakeholders to come together to explore innovative strategies for delivering new housing schemes is more important than ever. Improving the working relationship between local authorities and developers is key to increasing Galway’s stock of affordable housing, which in turn will not only assist addressing the housing shortage but will also breathe new life into local communities.”
Mayor of Galway City, Cllr Peter Keane said, “The affordable housing crisis is a challenge that local government and developers must tackle together with the support of government. The purpose of this seminar was to demonstrate that working with developers to increase affordable housing options will help us create a more equitable and vibrant Galway for all residents.”
Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said the demand for affordable housing is growing. “The rising cost of living means more and more people are being priced out of the housing market. By providing affordable housing, you are meeting a current need and anticipating future demand,” he told seminar delegates.
Outlining the benefits for developers in working with local authorities, Conneally commented, “By making developments available for affordable housing, you open the door to strong partnerships with Galway County Council. We can offer incentives, including advertising for developments, increased number of potential purchasers and funding opportunities,” he added. “Affordable housing developments qualify for grants and subsidies from the government, which can access finance and ensure that your project remains financially viable.”
Welcoming the opportunity for Galway’s city and county councils, the private housing development and construction sector to work together in delivering affordable homes, Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said the seminar was an opportunity for developers to meet with staff in the local authorities and to discuss potential projects, with a focus on finding a solutions-based approach to the housing crisis.
“The National Planning Framework seeks to increase the stock of much-needed affordable homes, while the National Housing Delivery Action Plan incorporates local authority Housing Builds, Turnkey Housing developments and Affordable Housing purchases. Galway City Council’s programme for delivery new housing in line with ‘Housing for All’ targets is supported by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage through the Galway Housing Task Force with a particular emphasis on expanding the city’s affordable housing stock,” he added
