Birr has a problem of too much empty space

The problem of quite a lot of vacant space in the upstairs floors of a large number of Birr's business premises was briefly discussed during a recent Birr 20:20 meeting.

It was pointed out by members of the community group that traditionally a lot of the shops on O'Connell St, Main Street and Castle Street had flats to rent in the floors above. This is a less common feature now.

The problem of vacant and derelict homes in the town was also discussed. Cllr John Carroll said the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant provides funding so you can refurbish your vacant or derelict home. You can get up to €30,000 to renovate a vacant property and an additional top-up grant of up to €20,000, if the property is derelict. The grant was initially only available for vacant homes in regional towns and villages. However, on 15 November 2022, the grant (Croí Cónaithe) was extended to cover all areas. So, it is now available if you are refurbishing a vacant home in a city or rural area, as well as a regional town or village.

Cllr Peter Ormond said it has proven very difficult over the years to adequately improve the vacant and derelict home problem. He hoped the Croí Cónaithe Fund will be a game-changer.

Seán Loughnane said it was sad that Bowes shop and The Swan pub had closed down and were no longer operating on Main Street. “It means that there is now on the main street no owner managed business with the owner family living on the premises.”