Láithreáin Thréigthe
Local Authorities are responsible for establishing and creating a Derelict Site Register which is available to view during office hours.
A derelict site as any land which detracts, or is likely to detract, to a material degree from the amenity, character or appearance of land in the neighbourhood of the land in question because of:
- The existence on the land in question of structures which are ruinous, derelict or dangerous condition, or
- The neglected, unsightly or objectionable condition of the land or any structures on the land in question, or
- The presence, deposit or collection on the land in question of any litter, rubbish, debris or waste, except where the presence, deposit or collection of such litter, rubbish, debris or waste results from the exercise of a right conferred by statute or by common law.
Process
Municipal District Technicians carry out county-wide visual surveys which provide derelict site owners with a list of works and the chance to carry out such works before the site may put on the Derelict Site Register. You can also report a derelict site for inspection.
Purpose
We all have a responsibility to keep land and properties out of dereliction. The derelict site process helps to create a vision of Mayo that is sustainable, prosperous, inclusive and proud`
Deeming a property derelict
For any property deemed derelict a report is prepared detailing;
- Ownership
- Location
- Condition of Site
- Extent of Works required
- Timeframe to complete works
- Recommendations.
Notices of Intention to enter the site on the Register are served on the owners/occupiers of the sites identified by the surveys. The Notice stipulates a one month period to make written representations while a letter accompanying the notice specifies the works required and a timeframe to complete recommended works on the property before it will be entered onto the Derelict Site Register. If the notice is un-delivered/returned/not called for or where ownership is not known, it will be affixed to the property.
If the recommended works are not completed within the timeframe given the property is entered onto the Derelict Site Register. At this stage another notice is issued to the owner(s) to say that the property has been entered onto the Derelict Site Register. Any property on the register on January 1 of that year may be subject to a levy of 7% of the market value of the property, with interest accrued at a rate of 1.25% per month for non-payment. Any levies owed remain with the property.
At any stage in the process a re-inspection can be requested by contacting the Environment Section of Mayo County Council. Provided the Municipal District Technician is satisfied the property has been brought out of dereliction, the property can be removed from the process/register.
There are some circumstances under which it may be necessary for Mayo County Council to acquire a Derelict Site through Compulsory Purchase Order. Further information on this process can be found in the Derelict Sites Act 1990.
The Derelict Sites Register is available for inspection at the Council Offices during normal working hours.