The requirement for a ‘Local Need’ before planning can be granted is just another barrier preventing young people getting on the property ladder, one aspiring homeowner has argued. 

The requirement is determined by local authorities and, according to Planning Permission Ireland, is “crucial” to ensure that “new developments and their applicants are in line with local community needs and sustainability.”

However, on Lunchtime Live, social media influencer Matthew McNabb believes the rule amounts to unnecessary red tape. 

Mr McNabb and his partner, Laura Nolan of Dancing With The Stars fam, found a site close to Dublin but were foiled by the requirement of ‘Local Needs’ as neither were from the area. 

“Myself being up North and Laura being Lucan,” he explained. 

“Lucan is such an expensive area because it’s part of Dublin; for example, a house from across the road went for €800,000.

“That’s a lot of money - especially for first time buyers.” 

The couple are looking further out but fear that means they will no longer qualify as ‘local’. 

“You want to try and maximise every avenue you have,” he said. 

“So, whether it’s derelict housing - we’re definitely looking for that. 

“We’re looking for houses that are outside of Dublin, so a bit cheaper. 

“Or looking for sites and because of this ‘Local Needs’ [requirement], it’s taken the sites completely away from us. 

“So, we’re without one big option.”

Main image: Builders at work. Picture by: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie.