Drogheda tops Louth’s commercial vacancies as county rate soars to over 15pc
Louth’s commercial vacancy rate rose to 15.1pc in December 2025, placing it above the national average and reflecting a continuing upward trend across the country, according to the latest GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report.
The county’s rate represents a 0.1 percentage point increase compared with December 2024 and is slightly higher than the national commercial vacancy rate of 14.6pc, which itself has reached the highest level recorded by GeoDirectory since it began tracking the data in 2013.
The figures mirror a broader trend across the State, where regional variations remain stark. Nationally, Ireland had 30,687 vacant commercial units in the final quarter of 2025. Sligo was the county with the highest commercial vacancy rate in Ireland at 20.8pc, followed by Donegal (20.6pc) and Galway (18.7pc).
Within Louth, vacancy rates varied significantly. Of the urban areas surveyed Drogheda recorded the highest commercial vacancy rate at 20.3pc. and Ardee had the lowest, at 15.2pc.
In a bid to tackle rising commercial vacancy rates Louth County Council have rolled out a number of new initiatives, including the introduction of the 2026 Commercial Rates Waiver Scheme to support new businesses occupying properties vacant for over 12 months in designated town areas.
Eligible businesses receive a phased, three-year waiver with a 100pc reduction in year one, 50pc in year two, and 25pc in year three.
Welcoming the launch Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council said: "If you’ve been thinking about starting a new business, now is the perfect time. This scheme offers real financial support to help you get started and succeed while also revitalising vacant properties in Louth’s towns.”
Commenting on the findings of the GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report, Dara Keogh, CEO of GeoDirectory, said, "The continued upward trajectory of commercial vacancy rates, which remains at an all-time high of 14.6pc, is an indicator of several economic factors which have been developing for a number of years. This includes the increased penetration of online shopping and commerce, along with remote working trends. The changing needs of businesses and consumers, and the subsequent impact on commercial property, should be closely considered to ensure the best utilisation of these spaces in the future.”