Progress on ghost estates

Westmeath County Council has almost halved its inventory of ghost estates, a feat which the executive says is being recognised by the Department of the Environment.

Declan Leonard told county councillors at their October meeting last week that the council is being proactive and has reduced its number of ghost estates from 43 to 23 by working closely with banks, bondholders and developers.

He said the council is close to resolving more ghost estate developments but the process becomes complicated and has to start again from scratch if examiners are appointed to developments.

Mr Leonard said this is frustrating for residents and he acknowledged their patience and understanding.