Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 April 2024
211. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will look into practical issues applicants are experiencing with the vacant property refurbishment grant (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17094/24]
View answerPathway 4 of Housing for All sets out a blueprint to address vacancy and make efficient use of our existing housing stock. The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was launched under the Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund to support bringing vacant and derelict properties back into use. A grant of up to €50,000 is available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence and for properties which will be made available for rent.
Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €50,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 is available where the property is confirmed by the applicant to be derelict or where the property is already on the local authority’s Derelict Sites Register, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €70,000.
The grant is available in respect of vacant and derelict properties built up to and including 2007, in towns, villages, cities and rural areas. The property must be vacant for two years or more at the time of grant application and proof of vacancy is required to support grant applications.
Feedback on the grant has been very positive since its launch, with over 7,500 applications received and over 4,370 applications approved to date.
All 31 local authorities have a full time, dedicated VHO in place, funded by the Department. While my Department provides guidance on the scheme, it is the local authorities who administer and manage the scheme. Local Authorities are supported in their work by the Vacant Homes Unit in my Department, who provide information and support to local authorities on the administration and management of the scheme. The Housing Agency on behalf of my Department also offer ongoing support and guidance on scheme administration to local authorities.
Following revisions to the scheme in May 2023 the grant application form was revised and updated. Applicants should ensure they are completing the most recent version of the application form. The application form, information and guidance for grant applicants including a list of frequently asked questions is provided on my departments website at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/service/f8f1b-vacant-property-refurbishment-grant/.
When the Croí Cónaithe Town Fund was launched, a commitment was given that a comprehensive review of the schemes under it, including the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, would be undertaken. That review is currently underway and is due to be completed in mid 2024.
