Construction Industry Criticizes State Bodies Over Housing Development Delays
Senior figures in Ireland’s construction industry have voiced sharp criticism of State bodies for hindering housing development by prioritising infrastructure protection. This comes as local councils are urged to rezone more land for residential projects, highlighting ongoing tensions in addressing Ireland’s housing crisis.
The Construction Industry Federation’s (CIF) Southern Construct recently featured insights from Conor O’Connell, the CIF’s director of housing, planning, and development. He expressed concerns over the responses from State bodies such as Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the National Transport Authority. These bodies have made submissions on Cork City Council’s efforts to rezone 270 hectares for new homes, which are considered “unhelpful” by the industry.
“Councils were directed to zone more land, and they’ve done so. Yet, other State actors are making serious objections,” O’Connell stated. He urged stakeholders to review documents like the TII letter, which he believes highlight the bureaucratic challenges hampering housing supply in Ireland.
The discussion featured Brian Geaney, assistant chief executive of Cork City Council, who confirmed that zoning proposals underwent a rigorous review. “The 31 local authorities can propose zoning, but without support from other State agencies, we can’t progress. We are facing a housing crisis,” he mentioned.
Kieran O’Donovan of Murnane O’Shea described past decisions to de-zone land in 2022 as a major oversight. “Now, efforts to rezone are blocked. It’s a step backwards,” he added.
At another panel, former minister Simon Coveney remarked on the delays caused when State bodies appeal planning decisions. “Decisions made by senior planners need respect. Delays of up to 18 months and the expenses involved are issues the State must address,” he said.
Financial Strains in Housing Development
The conference also revealed concerns about the sustainability of State funding for residential projects. Coveney pointed out the heavy reliance on State support for apartment constructions. “The apartment market in Ireland is broken. Without State financial input, projects stall,” he noted.
While acknowledging the necessity of short-term State intervention, Coveney warned, “At least 20% of funding for private developers is costly. Early action with financial certainty is critical.”
CIF President Stephen McCarthy emphasized the need for substantial investment, stating, “To achieve national targets of 60,000 homes yearly, we need €40bn. Government investment alone isn’t sustainable. We must enhance the private market’s role.”
The construction industry’s call for coordinated action underscores the pressing need to align zoning, planning, and funding efforts to address Ireland’s housing challenges effectively.
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