Multiple derelict pubs to be turned into homes in Donegal

Seven derelict pubs are proposed to be turned into 16 residential units in Donegal.

Donegal County Council received 39 notifications to change suitable commercial premises into homes from 2018 until 2023, according to new figures.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien published the figures, which, if realised, have the potential to result in 72 new homes across the county.

The Minister for Housing announced today that 92 derelict premises nationwide will be turned into 295 residential units.

This number may rise in the future as there are conversions planned for over 1,100 vacant commercial premises with potential for over 2,700 homes over the country.

Planning exemptions introduced in 2018, removed the requirement for planning permission for the conversion of certain types of vacant commercial property into residential units. In 2022, the exemption was extended to allow vacant pubs to be converted into homes. In 2022 and 2023, 92 notifications relating to pubs were received by local authorities with the intention to create 295 new homes.

“Converting empty buildings into forever homes is a key component of Housing for All" said Minister O’Brien.

"These figures show that policies which have eased the planning burden for those who wish to convert unoccupied commercial premises, including pubs, into residential use are helping to increase supply, tackle vacancy and renew urban areas.

I’ve visited counties and got to see first-hand the impact of turning what was once a vacant pub into five or six new apartments. It makes sense to provide the exemptions and to make it easier for people to convert commercial buildings into high-quality homes.’’

“This is one of a suite of measures which has proved effective in encouraging property owners to convert vacant commercial buildings to residential use such as ‘above shop’ living” added Minister of State for Planning and Local Government, Alan Dillion.

“Bringing vacant and derelict properties back into reuse can be a catalyst for regeneration and revitalisation, bringing vibrancy back to communities.”