Extended scheme and new above-the-shop grant aim to tackle vacancy across Tipperary towns

A new refurbishment scheme aimed at bringing vacant buildings back into use could play a significant role in revitalising towns and villages across Tipperary, according to Deputy Michael Lowry.

The Tipperary TD has welcomed the Government’s decision to extend the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant to 2030, alongside the launch of an additional initiative designed to increase housing supply and support urban regeneration.

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The newly introduced Vacant Above-the-Shop Grant is intended to encourage the conversion of unused space above commercial premises into residential accommodation. 

Under the scheme, property owners can access an enhanced support package of up to €140,000 to refurbish vacant or derelict upper floors and bring them back into use as homes. 

The measure is designed to make better use of existing building stock while strengthening the vitality of town centres.

Deputy Lowry says the measures represent a meaningful step in addressing housing shortages while also improving the character and livability of local communities.

“There are many premises across Tipperary that are lying idle at a time when demand for accommodation has never been greater. 

Understandably, many of these property owners do not have sufficient money to carry out the work needed to renovate these upper storeys, some of which may be on the way to dereliction. 

Much as they may wish to refurbish these properties to avoid dereliction, as well as well have enable them to become a source of income, the cost of doing so puts them off,” he says.

Under the scheme, funding of up to €95,000 is available for the delivery of a single residential unit, with additional financial support provided where multiple homes are created within the same building.

 Properties must have been vacant for a minimum of two years to qualify. An extra €5,000 is also available to cover professional fees related to architectural or technical advice required for residential conversion.

Deputy Lowry notes that interest in refurbishment grants is already growing. The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant recorded its highest level of payments in the third quarter of 2025, representing a 126 per cent increase compared with the same period last year.

He is now urging the Government to ensure that the schemes are implemented in a way that benefits smaller towns and villages, where vacancy and dereliction remain persistent challenges.

According to Deputy Lowry, making the supports accessible and practical for property owners in these areas will be essential if the policy is to deliver lasting regeneration.

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