‘Scandalous’ delay leaves six completed Limerick homes empty as future use remains unclear

SIX homes developed in Abbeyfeale remain unoccupied despite being completed, with their future use still to be decided.

The issue was raised at the April meeting of the Newcastle West Municipal District, where councillor Liam Galvin sought an update on the properties.

Cllr Galvin asked the local authority “for a detailed update on the six properties developed in Abbeyfeale under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund,” seeking clarification on their current status, future plans, expected occupancy timelines, completion costs, and the reasons for delays.

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In a written reply, Head of Property Services Jayne Leahy confirmed that all six properties have been completed to a “builders finish” standard, meaning they are structurally complete but not yet ready for occupation.

The properties include a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom homes located at Colbert Terrace, Convent Road, Old Church Street and the former Bridge Inn site in Abbeyfeale.

However, despite their completion, no timeline has been set for when the homes will be occupied, with their future use still under consideration.

Ms Leahy said the properties are currently under review to examine the feasibility of a rental model, with discussions ongoing with the Department of Housing.

She said financial modelling is at an advanced stage, with engagement continuing to determine the future use of the homes. She also confirmed that the cost of bringing the properties to a liveable or rental standard has not yet been assessed.

With the exception of one property on Convent Road, the homes have been completed since late 2025 or early 2026, with progress now dependent on agreement being reached at departmental level before they can be brought into use.

Cllr Galvin requested that the matter be referred back to the Director of Housing and the Mayor, and that a "completed response" be provided before the next meeting.

Cllr John Sheahan said he was “as confused as Cllr Galvin” about the six unoccupied homes in Abbeyfeale and called it “scandalous that somebody or something is holding up those six houses.” 

Cathaoirleach for the district Michael Collins added that “there are a lot of people depending on houses” and suggested that paperwork may be “sitting on somebody’s desk at a high level” without being signed off.

He stressed that if this is the case, it “needs to be highlighted” and "more importantly needs to be signed off on."