Proposal to slash development levies for businesses that create jobs

People engaged in projects that create jobs may be eligible for reductions in development levies payable to local authorities.

New development levy guidelines, announced by Jan O’Sullivan, the minister for housing and planning yesterday, are also aimed at encouraging retail and other activities in the centre of towns and cities.

Out-of-town shopping centres have, in recent years, undermined business in the high streets of many urban areas, and the guidelines are intended to help restore the balance and help regenerate the central areas.