Dundalk's addition to Living City Initiative a 'huge boost' for the town centre

Dundalk Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the addition of Dundalk to the Living City Initiative Scheme under Budget 2026. The Scheme provides significant tax reliefs to revitalise buildings in town centres through targeted refurbishment and reuse of existing buildings. 

Speaking on the announcement, Dundalk Chamber CEO John McGahon said “The Living City initiative was originally established in 2015 and only included Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Waterford and Limerick.

"In every pre-budget submission that the Chamber has submitted, having Dundalk included in the living city initiative has been one of our key priorities. Our current PRO Paddy Malone has been instrumental in drafting, submitting and lobbying Government over the last decade and more about the need for Dundalk to be added to the scheme.

"It is a huge achievement that Government has finally listened to Dundalk Chamber of Commerce and added Dundalk to the Scheme."  

Welcoming the news, Dundalk Chamber President, Hanna McDonnell said: "The Living City Initiative demonstrates how targeted tax incentives can transform older buildings into vibrant homes and commercial spaces. Most importantly, this scheme will get people back living above the shop front, bringing more people and activity into our town centre."

Dundalk PRO Paddy Malone added: "The Living City Initiative offers a range of generous income tax and capital allowance reliefs to individuals and businesses who undertake qualifying refurbishment or conversion works on properties located within designated Special Regeneration Areas (SRAs). 

"This scheme is a proven model for urban regeneration, and it represents an immediate opportunity to reduce tax liabilities, repurpose vacant buildings and drive commercial and residential renewal in Dundalk."