Over 7,000 vacant and derelict properties brought back into use, Government confirms

Over 800 vacant and derelict properties were brought back into residential use in July, August and September, the Government has confirmed.

So far, over 7,000 vacant and derelict properties have been brought back to residential use, thanks to the Vacant Property and Refurbished Grant and around €396 million in funding.

The Government say that demand remains very strong, with around 20,000 applications received and over 15,000 approvals granted since 2022.

Along with this, there is the Vacant Above the Shop Grant, and this did well in July, August and September, with 30 additional applications. Taking the total of applications submitted since its launch to 78.

Minister of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne said: “Dereliction is a scourge that blights communities, undermines town and village centres, and removes much-needed homes from use, and it is something this Government will not tolerate.

“The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is delivering real results right across the country, with more than 7,000 homes now brought back into use through the scheme. That represents thousands of families, homebuyers and renters who now have access to homes that may otherwise have remained vacant, while also helping to revitalise communities.

"It is particularly encouraging to see continued momentum in Vacant Above the Shop applications, which will play a vital role in regenerating our towns and villages while providing additional homes in well-serviced locations."

When it came to the top locations for restored homes, Donegal topped the list, with 600 homes brought back into use. Dublin and Cork followed closely behind with 554 and 547 homes restored.