Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International & Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the announcement of the continuation of the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant to 2030, alongside the introduction of a new targeted Vacant Above the Shop Grant.
Minister Canney said the measures represent a practical and impactful response to vacancy and dereliction, while helping to unlock much-needed homes across the country.
“This is a very welcome and important announcement that directly addresses one of the most visible challenges facing our communities – vacant and underused buildings in the heart of our towns and villages,” Minister Canney said. “Extending the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant to 2030 provides certainty for homeowners and local authorities, while the new ‘above the shop’ grant is a smart, targeted intervention that recognises the unique challenges of bringing these spaces back into use.”
Under the new scheme, enhanced grant support of up to €140,000 will be available to support the conversion of vacant space above existing commercial premises into residential units. This includes:
- up to €95,000 where one residential unit is created;
- an additional €20,000 where two units are created;
- a further €20,000 where three or more units are created; and
- up to €5,000 towards expert advice to support the conversion process.
Minister Canney said the focus on “above the shop” living has the potential to deliver multiple benefits.
“Bringing homes back over shops not only increases housing supply, it strengthens town centres and elsewhere. These measures strike the right balance between housing delivery, regeneration and sustainable development,” he said.
Minister Canney also noted the strong performance of the scheme to date, with more than 15,670 applications received nationally since its launch, over €230 million paid out, and record payment levels achieved in 2025.
“The level of take-up shows there is a real appetite to bring vacant and derelict properties back into use. Building on that success, and aligning with the Programme for Government and the national housing plan, these changes will help accelerate delivery and make better use of existing building stock,” he added.
The new Vacant Above the Shop Grant is expected to be available by the end of Q1 2026.
