How new grants can breathe life back into our towns
PROPERTY
By Johnny Gannon, Fair Deal Property
For generations, towns like Tuam were about far more than commerce. They were the beating heart of community life. Shops opened early, neighbours met on streets, and above those shopfronts families lived, worked and raised their children right in the centre of town.
That way of life has long disappeared, and towns are poorer places for it.
Across Ireland, upper floors above shops have fallen vacant, many for years. At the same time, town centres have lost much of their energy. Housing estates pulled families outward, while retail parks and supermarkets drew footfall away from the main street. The result is one we all recognise, empty upper windows, weaker trading conditions, and town centres that feel quieter, colder and less connected than they once did.
Now, however, we have a real opportunity to reverse that trend.
The Vacant Above the Shop Grant, which opened on 31 March 2026, provides a powerful financial incentive to bring these spaces back into use. Property owners can access up to €95,000 where one residential unit is created, €115,000 for two units, and up to €135,000 where three or more units are delivered, along with an additional €5,000 Expert Advice Grant to support professional input.
To qualify, the upper floors must have been vacant for at least two years, the building must retain a commercial ground floor, and the property must be located within a recognised town, village or city setting. Importantly, there is no requirement for the owner to occupy the unit, meaning these homes can be made available to the rental market, although a 10-year clawback applies in the event of a sale.
The logic behind the scheme is straightforward. Towns need people living in them. Retail on its own is no longer strong enough to sustain a vibrant main street. But when residents return, everything changes. Lights come on in upper windows. Cafes, small shops and local services become viable again. Streets feel safer, more welcoming and more alive.
Historic market towns such as Tuam are ideally positioned for this type of renewal. The buildings are already there, full of character and history. What has been missing is the financial viability to unlock them. These grants go a long way towards bridging that gap.
If we get this right, we will do far more than create additional homes. We will restore life, vibrancy and community to the heart of our towns.
For more visit www.fairdealproperty.ie