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22 Oct 2025
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22 Oct 2025
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Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, has announced the latest figures which show that nationally over €200 million has been disbursed through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, successfully returning 3,672 previously vacant or derelict homes to active residential use across the country.
The figures also show that in Kilkenny, €5.24m has been paid out which has brought 94 disused homes into use. In total, since the grant was launched in July 2022 up to 30 September 2025, there have been 349 applications from Kilkenny homeowners with 264 approvals.
Throughout the country, Q3 2025 saw the highest-ever Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant payments, with 760 grants paid, representing a 126% increase compared to the same period last year. Since the scheme’s launch in July 2022, 11,059 applications have been approved.
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Welcoming the figures, Minister Browne TD said: “I consider vacant and derelict homes not only a blight on our village and town communities, but also as a form of anti-social behaviour.”
“It is unacceptable in a housing crisis, and I will not be found wanting in tackling it. Consider this the warning shot - if you have properties left derelict, then I expect them to be dealt with as a matter of urgency.”
“Disused properties not only represent missed opportunities to provide much-needed homes, but they also undermine the vibrancy and liveability of our town centres. It’s appalling to me personally and I know it is just galling for people who live near them - to see sites in services areas, where councils are tending to roads and nearby amenities,” he added.
Since the introduction of the grant in July 2022 to September 2025, Donegal County Council and Cork County Council have received the highest number of applications with over 1,000 each.
They are followed closely by Dublin City Council who have received over 900 applications. Mayo and Tipperary County Councils are the next highest in terms of activity under the scheme.
A total of 14,910 applications have been received for the grant since it was launched in July. Of those 11,059 applications have been approved.
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