Article 8 Powers of district councils in relation to economic development

(1)

A district council may promote the economic development of its district.

(2)

Without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (1), a district council may for the purposes of the economic development of its district—

(a)

make payments; and

(b)

acquire, hold and develop land.

(3)

The power to acquire land under paragraph (2)(b) includes power to acquire it otherwise than by agreement.

(4)

In paragraph (2) “develop”, in relation to land includes—

(a)

erect, alter or extend buildings thereon;

(b)

carry out works thereon;

(c)

provide means of access, services and other facilities for persons using the land;

(d)

facilitate the doing of such things by another person;

(e)

manage and dispose of the land.

(5)

In exercising its powers under this Article a district council shall have regard to any guidance for the time being issued under paragraph (6).

(6)

The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment may, after consultation with district councils and other interested bodies or persons, issue guidance as to the exercise by district councils of their powers under this Article.