The vacant property refurbishment grant in Ireland has seen a significant increase in completions, with approximately €45 million paid out for the refurbishment of over 860 homes. This figure represents a substantial increase from previous quarters, demonstrating the growing success of the scheme.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O'Brien, released the latest figures for the grant, which show that the number of grants issued has risen exponentially since its launch. In the third quarter of 2024, 336 grants were paid out, surpassing the 226 issued in Q2 and the 146 issued in Q1.

Overall, the grant has received 10,097 applications, with 6,713 approvals and 867 grants issued to date.

The vacant property refurbishment grant offers homeowners up to €70,000 to convert vacant or derelict properties into either their permanent residence or a rental property. This initiative aims to address the housing crisis by increasing the availability of affordable housing.

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Minister for Housing, Darragh O'Brien said: "Today's figures show that the vacant property refurbishment grant has been an extremely popular and effective measure. It has already facilitated the return to use of hundreds of previously vacant or derelict homes which is not only more sustainable but has resulted in increased supply, and ultimately, provided much needed homes for people.

"In the coming weeks and months, the number of grant payments will continue to ramp-up as thousands of the successful applicants complete the refurbishment work on their properties and drawdown their full grant awards.

"To ensure the effective implementation of the grant, under Housing for All, this government resourced local authorities to support development of specific vacant homes teams, and I want to compliment the local authorities and these teams for their work in making the grant so successful.

"As well as providing homes for people, the scheme has also helped to bring vibrancy back into our towns and cities in a sustainable way by making using of existing housing stock."

To date, Donegal County Council has the highest number of applications (934), approvals (614) and grant payments (60). Cork County and Mayo County Councils have had the second and third highest number of applications respectively.