The number of planning permission applications being granted for houses in Donegal has plummeted by almost half in one year.
Figures from the Central Statistics Office show a national drop of 53.5 % in the third quarter of the year, compared to the same time last year.
In the third quarter of 2009 there were 190 planning permission granted in County Donegal - that compares to 360 over the same period in 2008 a drop of 47% - slightly lower than the national average.
However reduction in the amount of permissions granted stands at 51% when compared to 2007.
Less people are either applying or being granted permission to extend their property - however the fall isn't as steep standing at 30%.
Overall across the country planning permissions for dwelling units, including housing and apartments, are down nearly 44 per cent on last year's figures.
