FG TD concerned about easing of one-off housing rules

Fine Gael TD Fergus O'Dowd has expressed concern about a government move make it easier for people to build one-off houses in the countryside.

Reports this morning said new rules drawn up by the Government would allow such houses to be built in special areas of conservation, including scenic beauty-spots.

Mr O'Dowd said today that he supported an easing of the restrictions, but would be concerned about any developments in scenic areas.

"I welcome the fact that rural dwellers will be able to get planning in their own area," he said, "but I would be very concerned about areas, particularly of outstanding natural beauty, that they would be blighted by houses that should never be there.

"It would be a retrograde and appalling step if the most beautiful parts of our countryside are destroyed forever."