To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how much the Valuation and Lands Agency has spent on its automated valuation model and associated computer database and training. (82994)

The VLA used CAMA (Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal) techniques and proprietary spatial modelling software to assess capital values of domestic properties in Northern Ireland for rating purposes.

The automated CAMA and modelling software operate on data contained within the Agency’s core business database system.

The Valuation and Lands Agency has spent a total of £1.40 million in respect of the automated valuation model and associated computer database and training.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the Valuation and Lands Agency use of geocode data in its automated valuation model includes data on proximity to geographic features or facilities. (83010)

Geocode data do not contain data on proximity to geographic features or facilities.

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the Valuation and Lands Agency (a) automated valuation model and (b) Spatialest software uses variography techniques. (83013)

Variography techniques were not used by VLA in the construction of valuation models. While the Spatialest software is capable of applying variography techniques the VLA modellers did not use the facility.