Cork City Council has officially opened applications for the City Centre Façade Improvement Grant 2026, a move aimed at boosting the visual appeal and economic energy of St Patrick's Street.

The €200,000 fund, managed by the City Centre Development and Operations Directorate (CCDOD), offers financial support to help property owners refresh the heart of the city.

The scheme is available to owners of buildings located between St Augustine's Church and the northern quays. It is divided into two distinct categories:

- Painting Grant Scheme: Provides up to €5,000 (or 25% of costs) for painting and minor external repairs to building façades.

- Shopfront Grant Scheme: Offers up to €5,000 (or 25% of costs) to upgrade or restore street-level shopfronts, with a particular focus on traditional designs that respect the historic streetscape.

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Property owners are permitted to apply for both grants for a single building, potentially securing a total of €10,000. To further encourage participation, the Council is waiving various scaffolding and hoarding fees, while several trade partners have agreed to provide discounts on materials and equipment to successful applicants.

The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, praised the initiative, stating: "This is a hugely positive step in supporting building owners and businesses to refresh the heart of the city. This Cork City Council initiative will help brighten façades, enhance the overall streetscape, and create a more inviting environment for shoppers, workers, and visitors alike."

He added: "It's exactly the type of practical, visible action that shows Cork City Council's commitment to maintaining a vibrant and attractive city centre."

Chief Executive Valerie O'Sullivan echoed these sentiments, urging local owners to engage with the scheme. "By taking part, property owners on Cork's prime retail street can play an active role in the ongoing renewal of the city centre, helping to strengthen pride of place and contribute to a more welcoming urban experience for all," she said.

The project aligns with the City Development Plan's goal of protecting Cork's unique architectural identity through the use of traditional materials and sensitive signage. Notably, applications will be accepted even if the owner is already receiving other financial assistance, such as the vacant property grant.