OWNERS of vacant properties may be in line for massive rates reduction if councillors set up a scheme.
Donegal County Council announced that refunds could be available under the Local Government Rates and Other Matters Act 2019.
An ad in the Donegal News posted notice of consideration of a scheme for the abatement of rates in respect of vacant properties.
Some premises in towns have been vacant.
A spokesperson said: “Section 9 of the Local Government Rates and Other Matters Act 2019 makes specific provision that elected members of a local authority may make a scheme providing for the abatement of rates in respect of vacant properties.
“Such a scheme shall be approved at the local authority budget meeting, concerning the local financial year to which the scheme shall apply.
“Donegal County Council will consider a scheme providing for abatement of rates in respect of vacant properties, applying in the 2027 local financial year.
“Donegal County Council welcomes written submissions from the public on this matter specifically covering the potential effects of a scheme providing for the abatement of rates in respect of vacant properties on businesses, individuals and on local authority services.
“Submissions must be received by Friday 14th of August and be sent to: Donegal County Council Rates Consultation Submissions County House, Lifford County Donegal F93 Y622 or by e-mail to: [email protected].”
A hanging basket and a mural of Letterkenny’s Market Square added some cheer to a building when it was vacant in Letterkenny.
The Local Government Abatement of Rates in respect of Vacant Properties Regulations came into operation on July 10, 2024.
The council explained: “Donegal County Council operates a 100 per cent refund in respect of commercial properties that are vacant and available for-lease during the financial year.
“In practice, this means that owners/tenants of properties that are vacant and for-lease are not required to pay commercial rates.
“Section 9 provides for the making of a scheme applicable to: liable persons or classes of liable persons in respect of; class or classes of vacant property; for such period or periods as may be specified.”