Rent pressure zones for Mayo raised with Housing Agency

THE designation of rent pressures zones in Mayo, in particular Westport and Castlebar, is being followed up with the Housing Agency.

Mayo County Council has raised the matter with the agency, highlighting how rents in Mayo were on average 15.8% higher in the second quarter of 2021 than a year previously.

The average listed rent is now €847 - up 64% from its lowest point.

The Housing Agency, in consultation with a housing authority, can may make a written proposal that an identified area be prescribed as a rent pressure zone.

In correspondence, the agency said it is currently looking into rent pressure zones. A response is expected from them shortly.

The update was highlighted by Councillor Donna Sheridan during a debate at a meeting of Castlebar Municipal District on housing.

Councillor Michael Kilcoyne highlighted a case where the rent had jumped from €500/€600 to €900 in one go.