Enhanced Leasing Units

​QUESTION

To ask the Minister for Housing; Planning and Local Government the number of enhanced leasing scheme units due to be operational in 2018; when the scheme will be open to interested parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY



The first call for proposals for the Enhanced Long Term Social Housing Leasing Scheme was launched on 31 January 2018 and the Housing Agency accepted submissions from interested parties until 12 April 2018. 

A total of 33 submissions were received from interested parties, which represents strong interest from the market. The Housing Agency is currently reviewing the proposals and will complete the initial review process in the coming weeks. 

Detailed information with respect to the numbers and locations of the units proposed for leasing under the Scheme will only be available once the individual proposals have been assessed, marked and accepted in accordance with the terms of the scheme and the respective Local Authorities have signed any Agreements for Lease arising. 

The first call for proposals was primarily aimed at new to the market or yet to be built properties and, as such, the lead-in time for occupation is likely to extend beyond 2018 in the majority of cases.  Any opportunities for 2018 delivery will be pursued as a priority. 

My Department is currently working with the Housing Agency on a second call for proposals and it is expected that this will open in July 2018.