Main image: A selection of ‘before and after’ shots of Donegal homes restored under the scheme.
Donegal County Council continues to lead the way across Ireland in the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant scheme.
To date, it’s the leading local authority in the country with more than €17.4 million paid out, returning 312 vacant and derelict homes to active use. As of the end of last month, the council has received 1,337 applications, more than any other county, and approved 1,011. Only 38 have been rejected. In the third quarter of this year, according to figures released today, 76 applications were received, and 82 grants worth almost €4.8 million were issued.
Nationally, more than €200 million in refurbishment grants has been paid out and saw 3,600 vacant and derelict homes brought back into use.
Minister for Housing, James Browne TD said today’s figures demonstrate that the scheme is playing a key role in tackling vacancy and dereliction.
“I want to be very clear. I consider vacant and derelict homes not only a blight on our village and town communities, but also that I see it as a form of anti-social behaviour,” he said.
“It is unacceptable in a housing crisis, and I will not be found wanting in tackling it. Consider this the warning shot – if you have properties left derelict, then I expect them to be dealt with as a matter of urgency.
“Disused properties not only represent missed opportunities to provide much-needed homes, but they also undermine the vibrancy and liveability of our town centres.
“It’s appalling to me personally and I know it is just galling for people who live near them – to see sites in services areas, where councils are tending to roads and nearby amenities”.
Council leads way with €17.4m in Donegal Vacant Property Grants was last modified: October 17th, 2025 by Staff Writer
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