DAERA Minister has driven forward important
new legislation that will help deal with the blight of unsightly,
run-down buildings and neglected areas in our communities.
The Dilapidation Bill secured final approval of the Assembly
today. This legislation will provide district councils with a fit
for purpose, Northern Ireland-wide enforcement regime,
modernising their toolkit for tackling dilapidated and dangerous
buildings and neglected sites.
Speaking after the debate in the Assembly, Minister Muir said:
People in Northern Ireland deserve to have pride in their local
area and to see their high streets thriving with shops,
restaurants and a variety of businesses, instead of being
blighted by run-down buildings and dilapidation.
With the passing of this Bill, we are marking a potentially
transformative moment for our neighbourhoods as we enhance the
ability of Councils to tackle dilapidation wherever it occurs. It
is now up to Councils to drive change in their communities and
utilise these powers on the ground.
I am extremely proud of this legislation and look forward to it
playing a role in supporting our local economy delivering more
vibrant neighbourhoods.
The Dilapidation Bill will enable councils to issue a range of
enforcement notices to require owners, occupiers and others with
a relevant interest to take appropriate remedial action to deal
with dilapidation and neglect or allow the council to take such
action itself and recover its costs from the relevant person.
This will help restore not only the look, but also the safety of
our cities, town squares and villages so people can once again
live and work in attractive and colourful neighbourhoods, added
Minister Muir.
My officials are continuing to engage with council officers on
the development of statutory guidance which will enable councils
to operate the new legislation effectively.
The Bill is expected to receive Royal Assent within the next six
weeks. Once Royal Assent has been received, the Bill will become
law and will be known as the Dilapidation Act (Northern Ireland)
2026.
Notes to editors:
- The Dilapidation Bill was introduced to the Assembly on 23
June 2025. The Bill's Committee Stage in the Assembly
concluded on 15 May 2026. The Bill's Consideration Stage
debate was held on 16 June 2026, with Further Consideration Stage
on 30 June 2026.
- The Bill aims to provide all district councils with a modern,
fit for purpose NI-wide enforcement regime to deal with the
negative impact of dilapidated / dangerous buildings and
neglected sites.
