Public meeting in Dundalk to explore rates options in Louth

Dundalk Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a public meeting, led by Chamber member Joanne Lavelle of Michael Lavelle Estate Agents, and Dundalk Chamber PRO, Paddy Malone, to explore the various rate options available to Louth County Council - particularly concerning the retail sector.

Dundalk Chamber says the initiative was prompted by a call from Louth County Council. Although the consultation period was brief, Dundalk Chamber had already submitted its proposals. Paddy Malone opened the meeting by outlining existing incentives, many of which focus on addressing vacant properties in the town centre.

Paddy explained to the meeting, that Louth County Council now has the authority to exercise discretion in applying rates where deemed appropriate. He noted that the Chamber’s submission advocated for rate relief in specific sectors, such as hospitality and other industries that promote increased footfall. Conversely, the submission recommended withholding support from sectors that do not contribute to this goal, such as vape shops.

Joanne expanded further on the Chamber’s submission and invited feedback from attendees. She emphasised the importance of supporting businesses that launched during the Covid-19 pandemic and are now transitioning from home-based operations to commercial premises.

Attendees echoed this sentiment, expressing a strong interest in seeing more craft and locally-focused retail outlets. There was a shared belief that increasing the number of tourist-oriented shops would also benefit the local economy.

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In closing, Joanne noted that attendees broadly supported the Chamber’s submission, particularly its approach to determining which sectors should receive support and which should not.