Limerick Sees Significant Investment in Restoring Vacant Properties
More than €5 million in grants has been approved to support the restoration of vacant homes across Limerick, according to recent figures. These developments highlight a growing effort to address the issue of abandoned properties and revitalize communities through targeted funding.
By the end of June 2025, a total of 408 applications for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant have been approved by Limerick City and County Council. This grant provides financial assistance of up to €50,000 for standard properties or €70,000 for derelict ones. The initiative is aimed at helping both homeowners and landlords bring empty properties back into residential use.
The program is part of the broader Croí Cónaithe scheme, which has seen significant success nationwide. According to data released by Minister for Housing James Browne, over €155.2 million has been distributed to applicants under this scheme. This funding has resulted in 2,856 homes being returned to residential use. Since the program’s inception, nearly 10,000 applications have been approved, demonstrating its widespread impact.
Limerick County TD and Minister of State Niall Collins has praised the local response to the initiative. He described the level of uptake as a “hugely encouraging” sign for the region. “This grant helps people bring vacant houses back to life and turn them into homes, breathing new life into our communities,” he said. Collins also noted that the number of grants being paid out will continue to increase significantly as renovation works are completed.
The Department of Housing has confirmed that more than 700 grants were disbursed nationally during the second quarter of 2025. This represents a substantial increase from the 226 grants issued in the same period in 2024. The rise in disbursements reflects the progress being made on renovation projects across the country.
Key Details of the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant
- Eligibility: Homeowners and landlords with vacant properties can apply.
- Grant Amounts: Up to €50,000 for standard properties, with higher amounts available for derelict homes.
- Purpose: To restore vacant properties and return them to residential use.
- Impact: Over 2,856 homes have been brought back into use since the scheme began.
The continued success of the program highlights the importance of targeted investment in addressing housing challenges. As more properties are restored, communities benefit from improved living conditions and increased property values. Local authorities and government officials are optimistic about the future of the initiative, with plans to expand efforts in the coming months.
With ongoing support and funding, the Croí Cónaithe scheme is playing a vital role in transforming abandoned spaces into thriving homes. The positive outcomes seen in Limerick serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. As more grants are approved and renovations are completed, the long-term benefits for communities are expected to grow significantly.
