Over €500,000 distributed to refurbish derelict buildings in Carlow 

OVER €500,000 has been issued to the owners of derelict homes in Carlow for their refurbishment this year.

Figures released last week show that 10 grants totalling €550,000 have been issued in Carlow so far this year after the completion of works.

Carlow County Council so far this year has received 22 applications for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant while 15 have been approved. No application has been rejected this year so far.

There is a time lag between being awarded a grant and receiving it as grants are paid out on completion of work and the provision of necessary paperwork.

Minister for Housing James Browne TD said: “We are in a crisis situation, and I am determined to pull every lever at my disposal to get things moving and get houses that are lying there underused or unused to become desperately needed homes.

“I am pleased with the serious impact the vacant property refurbishment grant delivers. The good work shown by this grant continues to grow, with the increase in payments reflecting the fact that more vacant and derelict properties are being brought back into use across the country. I take a very firm, indeed grim view of any properties left to lie vacant at this point in time.

“As well as delivering new homes for people and families, this grant does genuinely mark a key intervention when it comes to the liveability, accessibility and indeed safety of our cities, towns, villages and rural areas as well as helping to revitalise communities. I want people living in our urban spaces in social hubs of communities. We want thriving streets as people grow up and grow old. This is something I feel strongly about, and I am pursuing with intention.” 

The payment of grants is expected to continue at pace throughout the year as more refurbishment works reach completion.