Grants of over €3m for vacant properties issued in Limerick

THERE has been a “rapid increase” in applications for the vacant property refurbishment grant, with over €3.4m paid out in Limerick since the launch of the scheme in July 2022.

Grant payments of €3,469,541 have been permitted by the government to applicants in Limerick up to December 31, 2024, with 68 homes repurposed.

Overall, since the launch of the grant in July 2022, there have been 492 applications and 334 approvals in the city and county.

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The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne published the latest figures relating to the vacant property refurbishment grant which show that, nationally, over €77m has been paid out in relation to the refurbishment of 1,449 homes.

Under the vacant property refurbishment grant, you can receive a payment of up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or building into your permanent home or a rental property.

The grants are paid upon the completion of the works and the submission of the required paperwork.

Minister James Browne said: “The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is delivering real results.

“The rapid increase in grant payments, €3,469,541 in Limerick shows the scheme is growing momentum, helping to tackle vacancy and providing much-needed housing.

“With its ability to provide housing and revitalise communities, it is not surprising that the grant is so popular. Indeed, with over 11,000 applications received and hundreds of applications being received monthly, this initiative is making a real difference in communities across the country.”

The latest figures outline applications, approvals and payments under the scheme up to the end of December 2024 - and show an exponential increase in the rate of grants issued to homeowners following the completion of work.