David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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25. To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the expected closing date for applications to the town and village renewal scheme; the way in which local persons and community groups may put forward possible project proposals; when it is envisaged that funding allocations will be granted in 2021; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27986/21]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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I announced details of the 2021 Town and Village Renewal Scheme on 3rd May last.

The Scheme is designed to make towns and villages better places to live and work, and is an important part of Our Rural Future. The closing date set for receipt of completed applications by my Department is 16th July. Following competitive assessment, I anticipate I will make an announcement of approved projects in the third quarter of this year.

The minimum grant available is €20,000 and I have increased the maximum grant available this year to €500,000. I sanctioned this increase to align the Town and Village Renewal Scheme with the type of projects and level of ambition identified in Our Rural Future. Successful projects will attract grant funding of 90%. Priorities identified under the scheme this year include tackling dereliction and supporting efforts to bring vacant properties back into use in our towns and villages, particularly for remote working and as multi-purpose spaces.

The Scheme is administered through the Local Authorities, who seek expressions of interest from local groups in towns and villages within each County. The Local Authorities will work closely with local communities and businesses over the coming weeks to identify proposals that can make a lasting impact. Local community groups with potential projects for funding should monitor their local Council's website for details or contact their Local Authority directly.

Once the expressions of interest process is completed by the Local Authority, up to 8 proposals are developed into detailed applications and submitted by the Local authority to my Department for consideration.