Just 51 applications and 22 approvals for Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant

There have been just 51 applications and 22 approvals for the Croí Cónaithe grant otherwise known as the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, Director of Services for Housing, Community and Culture, Ms Mary Quinn told a council meeting recently. 

Newly elected Cathaoirleach Cllr Justin Warnock said the figures are too low for County Leitrim which has seen a 10% growth in population in the recent census.

He asked the council to facilitate a workshop on the grant between elected members and the Local Authority’s Housing, Planning and Economic Development departments in order to increase uptake. 

Ms Quinn said: "This request for a workshop will be facilitated with the relevant sections providing necessary information for the members." 

The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is a payment for turning a vacant house or building into a permanent home or a rental property with a grant of up to €50,000 available.

If the refurbishment costs exceed the standard grant of up to €50,000, a top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 is available.