New figures from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage reveal that 3,066 previously vacant or derelict properties were brought back into use during 2025.

This marks a significant escalation in the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant scheme, with the number of payments issued more than doubling the 1,349 grants recorded in 2024.

Since its inception in July 2022, the initiative has seen a total of 16,607 applications and 12,096 approvals. To date, 4,514 grants have been paid out following the completion of refurbishment works, representing a total investment of nearly €247 million.

Donegal County Council currently leads the country in activity, recording 1,430 applications and 316 payments. It is followed closely by Cork County Council and Dublin City Council, the latter of which has processed 317 completed payments from 811 approvals.

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Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, welcomed the momentum: "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. 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."

Minister Browne also highlighted the expansion of the scheme, adding: "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."

Under the existing terms of the scheme, applicants can receive up to €70,000 to renovate a vacant or derelict building for use as a primary residence or a rental property. Funds are released once the approved works are finished and the necessary documentation is submitted to local authorities.

Minister Browne concluded: "Tackling vacancy and dereliction is not just a priority, it's a necessity to ensure existing properties are put to use for housing."