Information clinics launched in Laois for vacant and derelict property grants
The funding is aimed at bringing unused buildings and over-the-shop spaces back into residential use with a series of information clinics being rolled out across the county to enable members of the public to speak with local authority staff.The special information clinics for Co Laois property owners are being hosted at several locations during the months of May and June 2026.The initiative follows the recent announcement by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, of new targeted measures designed to unlock unused spaces in cities, towns and villages by supporting the conversion of vacant and derelict buildings, as well as unused space above shops, into much-needed homes.Ballybrittas property after availing of Vacant Homes Property GrantsUnder the new measures, funding of up to €135,000 is now available to support turning vacant above-the-shop spaces into residential units provided the commercial element of the building is left intact.Grants of up to €115,000 are available to support the conversion of entire vacant former commercial or public-use buildings into homes.Both grants may also be complemented by an additional €5,000 Expert Advice Grant to assist with professional fees at the early planning and design stages.The supports build on the success of existing anti-vacancy and dereliction initiatives promoted by the Regeneration Section, including the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, and form part of the government’s ongoing commitment to town and village regeneration.Speaking about the announcement, Laois town regeneration officer, Denise Rainey said: “Vacant and underused properties have a key role to play in the regeneration of our towns and villages.“These new grants represent a real opportunity for property owners to bring vacant and derelict buildings back into use, while also contributing to the regeneration of our towns and villages.“We know that cost and complexity can be major barriers to refurbishment projects, and these measures are designed to make it more feasible for people to restore older buildings and create high-quality homes in our town centres.”Vacant homes’ office advisor, James FurlongThe information sessions in Laois will take place in towns across the county where staff will be available to advise on the grants and the application process.These are drop-in clinics with no appointments are necessary. Venue details will be promoted online.
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