The Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Andrew Muir, has this month announced Executive approval to introduce the Dilapidation Bill to the Northern Ireland Assembly.
The Bill aims to give Local Councils a modern and consistent enforcement framework to deal with dilapidated buildings and neglected sites, in line with powers used elsewhere in the UK.
It proposes to enhance cost recovery powers, allowing councils to carry out remedial work where necessary and recover costs from those responsible. Councils would also be able to issue enforcement notices requiring property owners or other relevant parties to address issues of neglect.
The Bill is expected to be brought to the Assembly before the summer recess on 5 July 2025.
This development coincides with the Department for Communities (DfC) announcing the cross-departmental Shaping Sustainable Places consultation, which proposes a long-term, cross-departmental regeneration programme for Northern Ireland’s villages, towns, and city centres.
The deadline for responses to this consultation is 11:59am on Sunday, 24 August 2025.
If you have any questions or comments about the Dilapidation Bill, or wish to share your thoughts on the DfC consultation, please contact Curtis Large, RSUA Policy and Public Affairs Officer, at curtis@rsua.org.uk
