Fears new EU rule on
 local need housing will cause mayhem

Fears that a recent ruling by the European Court of Justice could have detrimental effects on planning in Meath have been expressed this week.

Worries have been expressed that dropping a planning stipulation that one-off rural housing should be for ‘locals needs only’ would lead to a wealth of problems for local people.
These include higher costs, a possibility of locals not getting planning permission and severe pressure on services in the south of the county.
Cllr Darren O’Rourke has sought clarification on the recent ruling to planning rules that ‘locals only’ clauses, employed by Meath County Council and many other councils around the country, are against European law.
“This judgement is very significant. It is important that there is clarity regarding the implications of the ruling as soon as possible.
“Many councils around the country, including Meath County Council, have required those seeking planning permission for one-off rural housing to be born in the particular locality, and to pledge to live in their home for an extended period before selling it. It looks like these rules will have to be scrapped in order to comply with EU rules on freedom of movement. The implications will have a major bearing not only on planning decisions but also on the considerations of prospective homeowners.”
Cllr Eugene Cassidy pointed out that it appeared that someone could come from as far away as Cork and build a house in the Meath countryside.
“There will still be planning restrictions on ribbon development so that if there is too much development in one area, a local could then be refused permision. I want to see how this is going to be addressed. I think Meath County council has it right at the moment,” he said.
Cllr Tommy Reilly said that planners and council management will have to look at this.
“The Ashbourne Dunboyne area is under severe pressure with planning. Services would not be able to cope. I'm hoping to see a provision in the developoment plan that would focus development in villages,” he said.
Cllr Johnny Groarke said there was a need for clarity and said local people could have difficulty building in their own area.