Clare County Council has approved more than €17 million to vacant property owners under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant scheme in the past two years.
The local authority is now inviting more property owners to apply for this grant which helps them turn a vacant building into a permanent home.
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant was extended in May 2023 to include rental properties, allowing the property owner to rent the refurbished home long term or make it their primary residence.
Highlighting the success of the grant to date Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan said, “Clare County Council has paid out more than €2 million under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant and have approved €17 million in grant funding. The grant has proven very popular to date and is a great investment in housing in the County. I would encourage property owners to attend our walk-in information days or contact the Vacant Homes Team.”
Clare County Council Vacant Homes Officer Sinead Aherne said, “A grant of up to €50,000 is available for the refurbishment of a vacant property while up to €70,000 is available for derelict properties. The members of the Vacant Homes Team in Clare County Council are available to assist those making applications.
As well as accessing the Frequently Asked Questions document available on our website, we also encourage applicants to call us if they require any further assistance. This is a scheme that not only benefits the vacant property owner, but has on going benefits for the community as we bring more vacant housing stock back into use.”
“The scheme will be further promoted with public walk-in information events to be held throughout the county in the coming months. The council is also undertaking surveys of vacant properties in all settlements in the county to identify and engage with the owners on the supports available to bring the property back into use,” she added.
