Further to an evaluation of the feasibility of developing rapid build, volumetric modular housing to assist in accommodating the significant influx of people fleeing the war in Ukraine in 2022, 11 sites across the state were ultimately developed under the Rapid Build Programme. The last site at Haywood in Clonmel was populated last summer.
In total, 654 modular homes have been delivered with a maximum capacity of 2,640 residents and all are currently accommodating families with children. The positive impact of the programme on the lives of so many has been due in no small part to the support of local communities who have shown great solidarity with those displaced by Russia’s invasion. The accommodation provided at the location to which the Deputy refers comprises 62 units and currently accommodates 248 persons.
The rapid build units were delivered under the European Union (Planning and Development) (Displaced Persons From Ukraine Temporary Protection) Regulations 2022, which limits their current use to those who have been granted Temporary Protection status under the Temporary Protective Directive (European Council Directive 2001/55EC). An EU Council decision of July 2025 extended the application of this Directive to March 2027.
A central consideration under the Rapid Build Programme has been the future use of these sites once the Temporary Protection Directive ceases. Consequently, each site has been developed to be compliant with building regulations and each unit is of sufficient size to allow for alternative housing use. In addition, each site has roads, footpaths, street lighting and community facilities, including a play area and green spaces, in line with Local Authority planning guidance. These design considerations allow for potential future use of the modular units commensurate with their 60-year lifespan.
A multi-stakeholder process commenced in March 2025 to determine the long-term strategy for the sites, post temporary protection. A working group was formed, chaired by officials from my Department and including representation from the OPW and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This group meets on a regular basis.
Facilitated by the County and City Management Association (CCMA), members of the working group met with the Directors of Service for Housing and Planning, or their nominees, at each of the ten Local Authorities concerned in late April 2025 to appraise them of the intention of securing an alternative future use for the units post temporary protection. Further to this meeting, individual preliminary discussions with each Local Authority regarding potential future uses took place over the subsequent months.
The CCMA have subsequently formed their own internal group with relevant Local Authority representatives to consider both future use options and planning considerations and my Department will engage with that process to discuss potential approaches. When options are further developed local elected representatives will be informed of the potential future plans under consideration.
