Development plan · Westmeath County Council
Westmeath County Development Plan 2021–2027
The council's development plan written statement: its strategy, policies, objectives and development standards.
Westmeath County Council · 2021–2027 · 634 pages
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- HOUSING 3 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 75 stock, leased units, the Capital Assistance Scheme and Housing Assistance Payment Model and support for privately owned homes through the Housing Disability Grants Scheme. 3.5 Future Housing Requirements The Housing Strategy (Appendix 1) projects a likely need for 4,983 additional residential units in Westmeath over the period from 2021 – 2027, as set out in Table 1. Consolidation and sustainable intensification in established urban areas and existing towns, through infill development and brownfield redevelopment, is a priority. The Housing Strategy (Appendix 1) shows that with regards to private rental affordability, households which are identified as not being able to meet the ‘Affordability Criteria’ over the plan period are therefore considered to require social (and affordable) housing. As such, the total households, the social (and affordable) housing requirement, and social (and affordable) housing requirements as a percentage of total households has been set out in Table 3.1. 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 No. of Additional Anticipated Households 695 700 706 712 717 724 729 No. of Additional Households That Do Not Qualify for a Mortgage 214 216 218 220 221 223 225 No. of Additional Anticipated Households That Do Not Qualify for a Mortgage and Cannot Afford Private Rental 206 208 209 220 221 223 225 Social Requirement as a % of Total Additional Anticipated Households 29.6% 29.6% 29.6% 30.9% 30.9% 30.9% 30.9% Table 3.1: Overview of Social and Affordable Housing Need Requirement during Plan Period 2021-2027. It has been determined that 1,538 of the 4,983 additional anticipated households will not qualify for a mortgage during the plan period and that 1,512 of these households do not meet the affordability criteria for private rental. With regards to private rental affordability, households which are identified as not being able to meet the ‘Affordability Criteria’ over the plan period are therefore considered to require social (and affordable) housing which equates to between 29.6% and 30.9% of the additional anticipated households.
- HOUSING 3 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 76 However, it should be noted that while some of these households could afford to sustainably repay a loan of a certain size, their inability to qualify for a mortgage precludes them and effectively results in them being considered as having either a social or affordable need (after their assessment under private rental conditions). 3.5.1 Existing Social Requirement and Targets There are currently 1,255 households on the Westmeath Social Housing List (December 2019). With respect to unit type, there is a greater demand for 1 and 2 bed units across the county which account for 77% of the requirement. However, demand overall is concentrated in Athlone and Mullingar, with Athlone accounting for 39.7% and Mullingar accounting for 37.4% of total demand respectively. Under Rebuilding Ireland, Westmeath is targeted to deliver 801 social housing units within the ‘building, acquisition and leasing’ category specifically between 2018-2021. To date (Q3 2019), 315 units have been delivered through these mechanisms (between 2018-2019). Thus, over the course of 2020-2021 (and also Q4 2019), approximately 486 additional units are to be delivered. The overarching 2019 target is 626 additional units across all social housing delivery streams. As of Q3 2019, the county has achieved 69% of this target, with the delivery of 429 units. This is further elaborated in Appendix 1. It is also a key priority of the Council to ensure that groups with special housing needs, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, the homeless, those in need of emergency accommodation and Travellers are accommodated in a way suitable to their specific needs. 3.5.2 Rural Single Housing It is recognised that there is a continuing need for housing provision for people to live and work in rural Westmeath. The NPF states that it will continue to be necessary to demonstrate a functional economic or social requirement for housing need in areas under urban influence, i.e. the commuter catchment of cities and large towns and centres of employment. Elsewhere, single housing in the countryside will be facilitated based on siting and design criteria and having regard to the viability of smaller towns and rural settlements. These requirements are reflected in the Core Strategy of this Development Plan which includes a differentiation between ‘Rural Areas under Strong Urban Influence’ and ‘Structurally Weak Rural Areas’. The NPF also requires that Development Plans quantify for the demand for single housing in the countryside. This is related to the local authority’s Housing Need Demand Assessment (HNDA), and is encompassed in National Policy Objective 20, as follows:
- HOUSING 3 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 77 “Project the need for single housing in the countryside through the local authority’s overall Housing Need Demand Assessment (HNDA) tool and county development plan core strategy processes” (NPF; pp74) The HNDA model (see Appendix 1) has accounted for this demand. A linear extrapolation of the number of granted planning applications for single rural dwellings between 2006 - Q2 2019 has been undertaken. This identifies that approximately 22.1% of all granted residential applications within any given year have been for single rural dwellings and illustrates a consistent quantum of demand for single rural dwellings for which there is an established trend. Addressing housing requirements within the rural context can therefore be robustly informed using this demand-driver (22.1%), construction costs and the affordability thresholds set out in Appendix 1. The output of this assessment is indicative numbers of potential applications for single rural dwellings over the plan period, disaggregated by the size of dwelling to be constructed (linked with associated affordability thresholds). 3.5.3 Average Household Size The Census 2016 results indicate that Westmeath has a population to household ratio of 2.76, marginally higher than the state average of 2.75. However, the NPF states that this is expected to decline to around 2.5 by 2040, while also acknowledging that household sizes in urban areas tend to be smaller than in the suburbs or rural parts of the country. In line with this projected trend, a graduated average household size is utilised within this plan to 2040. As shown in Appendix 1, in 2027, the average household size is thus projected to be 2.64. By applying the relevant household size to projected population increases, it is possible to forecast required household numbers to 2027 and beyond. This is set out in Appendix 1. 3.5.4 Household Size Cohort Appendix 1 provides further detail on projected household composition over the plan period, based on analysis of trends between 2002-2016. This analysis demonstrates a trend towards 1 and 2 person households over the plan period, which are projected to form a combined total of 55.1% of all households by 2027. In contrast, the number of households comprising of 4 people or more will continue to decline between 2021-2027. Households with four or more people will amount to approximately 27% of total households by 2027. 3.5.5 Tenure Tenure is an important consideration for the delivery of housing and Section 6.6 of the NPF identifies the need to estimate the demand for different tenure types. Analysis of the historic tenure split has therefore been undertaken in Appendix 1 to help discern and forecast how the household tenure may
- HOUSING 3 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 78 change during the plan period. This analysis indicates a gradual decrease in the proportion of households categorised as ‘owner occupiers’ in Westmeath, with considerable growth in the rental sector. 3.6 Apartment Development The 2016 Census indicates that 1-2 person households now comprise a majority of households and this trend is set continue, yet Ireland has only one-quarter the EU average of apartments as a proportion of housing stock. (Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, 2018). In Westmeath, 8.5% of households lived in apartments in 2016, slightly lower than the national rate of 12%. 23.5% of all households in the county were 1-person households. As with housing generally, the scale and extent of apartment development should increase in relation to proximity to core urban centres and other relevant factors in line with the standards, principles and any specific planning policy requirements (SPPRs) set out in the ‘Urban Development and Building Heights Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ (2018) and the ‘Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments, Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ (2018). Existing public transport nodes or locations where high frequency public transport can be provided, that are close to locations of employment and a range of urban amenities including parks/waterfronts, shopping and other services, are also particularly suited to apartments. 3.7 Residential Densities Higher densities will be applied to the higher order settlements of Athlone and Mullingar to align with their roles as Regional Growth Centre and Key Town, subject to good design and development management standards being met. It is important that the density of new development in towns and villages is reflective of the existing character and that growth is linked to infrastructural capacity. As such, there will be a graded reduction in residential density for Self-Sustaining Growth Towns, Self-Sustaining Towns, towns and villages that are commensurate to the existing built environment. 3.8 Layout and Design A good development creates a ‘sense of place’ and community belonging to the residents. This is created by providing a mixture of house types and tenure, an individual design, the use of a variety of materials for the context of the site and area and connectivity of the site to other places. In considering proposals for development, the Council will have regard to the DEHLG Guidelines on ‘Quality Housing
- HOUSING 3 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 79 for Sustainable Communities – Best Practice Guidelines for Delivering Homes Sustaining Communities’ (2007), ‘Delivering Homes Sustaining Communities – Statement on Housing Policy’ (2007), ‘Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ (2018) and ‘Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas’ and the accompanying ‘Urban Design Manual: A Best Practice Guide’ (2009). 3.9 Housing Strategy Objectives Housing Strategy Policy Objectives It is a policy objective of Westmeath County Council to: CPO 3.1 Reserve sufficient lands to facilitate and implement the Housing Strategy and its policies, as informed by the HNDA undertaken as part of this Development Plan. CPO 3.2 Ensure that settlements grow in a manner that is self-sustaining with sufficient social and economic infrastructure, and to a scale which aligns with the Settlement Hierarchy prescribed in the Core Strategy. CPO 3.3 Secure the provision of social and affordable housing accommodation, to meet the needs of all households and the disadvantaged sectors in the county, including the elderly, first time buyers, single person households on modest incomes, people with disabilities, and special needs etc. CPO 3.4 Ensure in accordance with Part V of the Planning & Development Act 2000 (as amended) that arrangements for the provision of Social and Affordable Housing are made in accordance with the current Housing Strategy. CPO 3.5 Ensure that a suitable variety and mix of dwelling types and sizes is provided in developments to meet different needs, having regard to demographic and social changes. CPO 3.6 Support independent living for people with disabilities and the elderly and where possible, to ensure that housing is integrated within proposed or existing residential developments and located close to existing community facilities. CPO 3.7 Apply higher densities to the higher order settlements of Athlone and Mullingar to align with their roles as Regional Growth Centre and Key Town, subject to good design and development management standards being met. CPO 3.8 Apply graded densities in towns and villages having regard to their role in Settlement Hierarchy and that are commensurate to the existing built environment.
- HOUSING 3 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 80 CPO 3.9 Secure the implementation of the Council’s Traveller Accommodation Programme 2019-2024 and to review this programme if required and/or deemed to be necessary, during the Plan period. CPO 3.10 Continue to reflect household size and composition, including the accommodation needs of single parent families, single homeless persons, persons with disabilities and the elderly, etc. in accommodation provisions. CPO 3.11 Co-operate with Voluntary Housing Associations and other providers of social housing. CPO 3.12 Monitor and maintain a record of residential development permitted in settlements designated under the Settlement Hierarchy in accordance with forthcoming Departmental guidance around the establishment of a HNDA coordination and monitoring unit and related implementation of a centralised spatial database for Local Authority Housing. CPO 3.13 Support the ongoing monitoring and review of the HNDA, over the lifetime of the Plan, in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government having consideration to the housing requirements set out under Section 28 Guidelines “Housing Supply Target Methodology for Development Planning” and its associated Ministerial Circular (or subsequent update) relating to Structural Housing Demand in Ireland and Housing Supply Targets” together with the outcomes of any revised Development Plan Guidelines and HNDA Toolkit, and where appropriate, take any steps considered necessary to align with the approach set out in these guidelines. This will include monitoring and maintenance of a record of residential development permitted as single rural houses. CPO 3.14 In developments of 20 units or above, the development should achieve, where possible, a minimum of 5% of units designed and built to facilitate occupation by persons with a disability without structural changes, in accordance with 'Universal Design Guidelines for Homes 2015'. CPO 3.15 To support the development of quality residential schemes with a range of housing options having regard to the standards, principles and any specific planning policy requirements (SPPRs) set out in the ‘Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ (2009); ‘Urban Development and Building Heights Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ (2018) and the ‘Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments, Guidelines for Planning Authorities’ (2018).
- CHAPTER 4 CHAPTER 4 Sustainable Communities
- SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES 4 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 81 Table of Contents 4.1 Aim ........................................................................................................................................ 82 4.2 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 82 4.3 The National Planning Framework - Project Ireland 2040 (NPF) .......................................... 82 4.4 National Policies and Strategies ............................................................................................ 82 4.5 Eastern and Midlands Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES)................................ 83 4.6 Characteristics of an Effective and Successful Sustainable Community ............................... 84 4.7 Quality of Life ........................................................................................................................ 85 4.8 Creating Sustainable Neighbourhoods ................................................................................. 86 4.9 Sustainable Economy ............................................................................................................ 87 4.10 Sustainable Housing .............................................................................................................. 87 4.11 Lifetime Housing/Housing for Older People ......................................................................... 89 4.12 Social Infrastructure .............................................................................................................. 90
- SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES 4 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 82 To develop and support vibrant sustainable communities in Westmeath where people can live, work and enjoy access to a wide range of community, health and educational facilities and amenities, suitable for all ages and needs, in both urban and rural areas, thereby supporting a high quality of life for all to enjoy. A priority of this plan is the creation of sustainable neighbourhoods which support thriving communities and provide for a wide range of household types, age groups and tenures with community facilities close by. Sustainable Communities and placemaking are key entities in creating attractive places for people to invest, live, work and visit. Sustainable economic, social and community development is essential to support the emergence of sustainable neighbourhoods and communities throughout the County, especially in newly emerging or developing areas. Sustainable development has three mutually interdependent elements: 1. Environment: This includes protection and enhancement of the natural, built and historic resources of the County, including making effective use of land, minimising waste and pollution, and mitigating and adapting to climate change. 2. Economic: This includes building a strong and resilient economy by ensuring sufficient land is available in the right place and supporting growth and innovation and coordinating the provision of infrastructure. 3. Social: This includes providing social infrastructure such as jobs, housing, education, medical care, open space areas and cultural opportunities to support strong, vibrant and healthy communities and promoting well designed and safe environments. Sustainable development requires all of the above elements to work in a coordinated manner to ensure the County is a place where people want to live, work and visit, now and into the future. There is now significant alignment between the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the National Planning Framework’s National Strategic Outcomes (NSOs) in areas such as climate action, clean energy, sustainable cities and communities, economic growth, reduced inequalities and innovation and infrastructure, as well as education and health with a focus on compact, smart and sustainable development that have accessible services to all. National publications also provide excellent guidance on how to deliver quality neighbourhoods, urban areas and sustainable communities. These include Delivering Homes Sustaining Communities (2007), Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities (2007), Sustainable Urban Housing: Design Standards for New Apartments (2018), The Smarter Travel – A Sustainable Transport Future - A New
- SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES 4 Westmeath County Development Plan 2021-2027 83 Transport Policy for Ireland 2009-2020 (Department of Transport, 2009), Sustainable Residential Development in Urban Areas (2009), Urban Design Manual A Best Practice Guide (2009), Government Policy on Architecture (2009) and Appropriate Assessment of Plans and Projects – Guidance for Planning Authorities (2009). Actions plans including Rebuilding Ireland - an Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness 2016 which supports the creation of sustainable neighbourhoods and maximising the contribution of the built environment to addressing climate change and Realising our Rural Potential: Action Plan for Rural Development (DAHRRGA, 2017) sets out the Government’s policy for the economic and social development of rural Ireland. The Action Plan sets targets for job creation, connectivity, culture, tourism, town and village improvements and identifies over 270 specific actions. Local Authorities are identified as key partners in the development and delivery of the Action Plan. The RSES seeks to promote healthy placemaking and promote people’s quality of life through the creation of healthy and attractive places to live, work, visit and study in. It highlights the importance of the physical and social environment and place in which we live or work, and its impact on the health of people. The strategy aims to create a sustainable and competitive region that supports the health and well-being of our people and places, from urban to rural, and ensures access to affordable housing, travel and employment opportunities for all. The following RPO’s contained in the RSES are of relevance: Regional Planning Objective 9.14 Local authorities shall seek to support the planned provision of easily accessible social, community, cultural and recreational facilities and ensure that all communities have access to a range of facilities that meet the needs of the communities they serve. Regional Planning Objective 9.15 Local authorities shall support the vision and objectives of the National Sports Policy, including working with local sports partnerships, clubs, communities and partnerships within and beyond sport, to increase sport and physical activity participation levels locally. Regional Planning Objective 9.16 Local authorities shall support the objectives of public health policy including Healthy Ireland and the National Physical Activity Plan, through integrating such policies, where appropriate and at the applicable scale, with planning policies contained in development plans.
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