Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 15 January 2026
376. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to provide details on the new over the shop grant; who is eligible and the criteria for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3181/26]
View answerThe Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant provides a grant of up to €50,000 to named individuals for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence and for properties which will be made available for rent. A top-up grant of up to €20,000 is available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €70,000. In order to qualify for the grant, the property must be vacant for two years or more at the time of application.
The grant is currently available for the conversion of former commercial or public use buildings as well as "Above the Shop" type conversions.
The new housing plan reinforces and expands the range of existing measures being implemented by Government to tackle the issue of vacancy and dereliction. The plan includes additional support being made available under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant for the refurbishment and conversion of above the shop vacant floors for use as homes.
Recognising the additional works involved, the Government has approved a package of up to €140,000 to be made available in cases where vacant above the shop space is being converted / refurbished for residential use. This will include availability of an expert advice grant.
My Department is currently progressing work to introduce the Vacant Above the Shop Grant. I expect the Grant will be made available by end of Q1 2026.
Delivering Homes, Supporting Communities also commits to exploring the possibility of expanding the Vacant Above the Shop Grant to make it available to micro companies, on which work is underway within my Department.
