Louth shopfront scheme draws sixty applications in 2025
Sixty applications were submitted to Louth County Council’s Shopfront Improvement Grant scheme in 2025, councillors have been told.
The figures were released at the recent meeting of the Dundalk Municipal District, where Cllr Ciaran Fisher sought an update on the “uptake and cost” of the scheme last year.
In a written response, officials confirmed that 14 applications have been completed, with a shared funding total of €17,153.59 allocated so far.
A further 16 applicants have been approved or issued a letter of offer and are currently working towards completion, sharing an additional €22,424.56 in funding.
Another 18 applications remain pending, with further information requested before a final decision can be made.
Of the remaining submissions seven applications were refused or deemed ineligible. Five applicants were informed they must secure planning permission before their proposals can be assessed under the scheme.
Thomas McEvoy, Director of Service for Economic Delivery, said the scheme continues to be an important support for retailers and business owners across Louth.
“The purpose of the scheme is to foster good design practices which respect the character of the streetscape in terms of detailing, materials and finishes,” he said.
He added that all proposed works must comply with Louth County Council’s Shopfront Design Guidelines, which set out standards aimed at enhancing the visual quality of towns and villages.
The 2025 scheme opened for applications on 7 April and closed on 26 September.