Over 100 derelict or vacant properties brought back into use in Kilkenny

Figures released by the Department of Housing, Local Government today show that 114 previously vacant or derelict homes in Kilkenny have been brought back to use, thanks to €6.38m in funding to Kilkenny applicants under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant since the scheme launched. 

The figures also reveal that there is a robust pipeline of projects set to transform vacant and derelict properties into use as homes in Kilkenny as there have been 369 applications and 284 approvals since the introduction of the grant in July 2022. 

Nationally, as the scheme continues to gain momentum, the pace of delivery has also increased significantly, with the rate of grant payments in 2025 more than doubling compared to 2024. In total last year, 3,066 grants were paid out nationally compared to 1,349 in 2024. This represents an increase of 127%. 

Overall, between July 2022 and December 2025; 16,607 applications have been received, 12,096 approved and 4,514 grants paid out on completion of works to a total of almost €247m. 

Welcoming the new figures, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD said: 

“This grant is tackling the scourge of dereliction and vacancy head-on, and the surge in vacancy grant payments underlines its growing success in bringing homes back into use across our villages, towns and cities including here in Kilkenny. As more and more applications are approved, I fully anticipate this trend to continue and more previously disused properties will become permanent homes for people. 

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“In a time of housing shortage, leaving properties vacant is simply unacceptable. That’s why, last month alongside extending the grant until 2030, I also introduced an enhanced support package of up to €140,000 to transform vacant ‘above shop’ spaces into homes—revitalising communities and creating sustainable housing. The extended support package will be made available at the end of Q1 2026.

“Tackling vacancy and dereliction is not just a priority, it’s a necessity to ensure existing properties are put to use for housing. I would encourage anybody in Kilkenny who is interested in availing of the scheme to check it out and engage with the local authority.”

Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, you can receive a payment of up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or former commercial building into your permanent home or a rental property. The grants are paid upon the completion of the works and the submission of the required paperwork demonstrating the work approved has been delivered.

Deputy John McGuinness said the figures demonstrate the growing momentum of the scheme and its importance as a practical response to the housing shortage.

“These figures show very clearly that the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is making a real and measurable difference, including here in Kilkenny. Homes that were lying idle are now being transformed into family homes and rental properties, breathing new life into our communities,” he said.