Derelict filling station in Meath could be redeveloped as homeless accommodation
A derelict filling station in Meath is being considered for redevelopment into a short-term homeless accommodation facility.
The site on the Kentstown Road, located at the junction with Metges Road, has been on Meath County Council’s Derelict Sites Register since March.
An Coimisiún Pleanála is currently reviewing the council’s application to compulsorily acquire the property. If successful, the plan would see the former petrol station replaced with a purpose-built facility offering up to 32 bedrooms, along with cooking, laundry, and support services.
A spokesperson for Meath County Council said: “The intention would be to construct a purpose-built structure which would consist of up to 32 bedrooms and associated cooking, laundry, and support facilities to provide supported short and/or longer-term accommodation to single persons in advance of transitioning to a more permanent housing solution.”
They added that the site will not house international protection applicants.
The project, however, faces opposition from the site’s owner, Edward Cunningham of Athlumney, Navan, who has lodged an objection.
He argues that the filling station does not meet the statutory definition of a derelict property, that the council did not follow correct procedures before entering it on the register, and that an open-market sale is already underway.
Currently listed on Daft.ie with a guide price of €950,000, the property sits on just over one acre of zoned residential land.
It includes approximately 4,000 sq. ft. of commercial space, formerly used as a convenience store with petrol pumps and workshop.
The listing also highlights that the site previously had planning permission for additional residential units at the rear.
A decision from An Coimisiún Pleanála is expected on January 27, 2026.