Kerry sees ‘heartening’ impact of vacant property grant with 173 homes back in use

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

New figures show 173 vacant homes in Kerry have been brought back into use through the vacant property grant.

The children’s minister and Kerry TD, Norma Foley, said the figures were ‘heartening’ and encouraged more families in the county to apply for the grant.

The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant provides up to €70,000 to turn a vacant house or building into a permanent home.

New figures from the housing department show that since the grant was made available in 2022, 173 vacant homes have brought back into use in Kerry, with grants worth a total of €9.5 million.

“The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has helped families across Kerry to turn empty buildings into much-needed homes,” said Minister Foley.

“It is heartening to see that 173 vacant homes have brought back into use in our county.”

Nationally, the figures show that, on average, six previously vacant properties are being brought back into active use every working day through the scheme.

Kerry TD, Michael Cahill, also welcomed the news, highlighting the positive effect refurbishment is having on tight housing supply.

“These figures show the difference the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is making for families, communities and towns across County Kerry,” said Deputy Cahill.

“Every vacant or derelict property that is restored is another home made available at a time when we need to increase housing supply.

“The grant is helping people take on projects that may not otherwise have been financially viable, while also breathing new life into our towns, villages and rural communities.”