Cork cabins may not require planning permission soon

The government plans to hold a public consultation about allowing cabin construction in back gardens without needing planning permission. This proposal is part of a larger effort to address the ongoing housing crisis. Laurie O'Donnell from Cork supports the proposal. She and her partner live in a cabin built in her parents' garden. They came up with the idea five years ago while struggling to afford rent and unable to buy a home. O'Donnell said, "It’s changed our lives completely," and emphasized that the cabin helped them stay in the country. The cabins can be built quickly. O'Donnell noted that theirs was constructed in just three days. She believes these cabins could be a practical solution for many people facing housing challenges. Experts also see potential benefits in this proposal. Damien Owens from Engineers Ireland stated that cabin structures might ease pressure on the housing market. However, he stressed that it is important to consider the impact on local infrastructure, such as water and sewage systems. Rachel Minch, a lawyer, raised questions about whether homeowners would need to inform authorities about building these cabins. She suggested that there should be some oversight if these structures aren't subject to planning rules. Additionally, homeowners should be aware that adding a cabin could increase property taxes. Revenue Commissioners explained that any improvement raising property value may affect local tax assessments. For O'Donnell and her partner, staying in her parents' garden has been life-changing. Without the cabin, her partner might have considered moving abroad for work in medicine. "This has saved us," she said, noting their desire to contribute to their community in Ireland.