Impact of refurbishment grant revealed in new Kilkenny derelict property figures

The Vacant Property and Refurbishment Grant was first implemented in 2022

Published 19th Jul 2026, 14:00 BST File photo The Vacant Property and Refurbishment Grant was first implemented in 2022 Sign up to our Kilkenny Live newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Kilkenny Live within your account.

Fianna Fáil TD Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere has welcomed the latest figures showing that 212 homes across Carlow and Kilkenny have been brought into active use through the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant.

The latest statistics show that 464 applications for the grant have been approved locally since the scheme was introduced in July 2022, with nearly €12m in funding issued on completion of works.

Nationally, the figures show that, on average, six previously vacant properties are being brought back into active use every working day through the scheme.

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“These figures show the difference the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is making for families, communities and towns across Carlow and Kilkenny,” Deputy Cleere said. “Every vacant or derelict property that is restored is another home made available at a time when we need to increase housing supply,” he outlined.

“The grant is helping people take on projects that may not otherwise have been financially viable, while also breathing new life into our towns, villages and rural communities.”

In the second quarter of this year, €52.6m in grants was paid following the completion of refurbishment works, helping to return 923 vacant homes to use across the country.

“We have to make the best use of the homes that already exist,” Deputy Cleere added. Bringing vacant and derelict properties back into use strengthens our towns and villages, supports sustainable communities and provides more homes for individuals and families.”

“I would encourage anyone considering renovating a vacant or derelict property to contact their local authority’s Vacant Homes Officer or visit the Department of Housing website to find out more about the supports available,” he concluded.