195 vacant or derelict Mayo properties back in use through Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant

195 previously vacant or derelict homes in Mayo have brought back to use from funding under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, according to figures released by the Department of Housing and Local Government. 

Since its launch, Mayo applicants have received over €10.6m in funding. 

Since July 2022, there have been 931 applications and 696 approvals to transform vacant and derelict homes in Mayo.

Nationally, the rate of grant payments in 2025 has more than doubled since 2024. In total, last year, 3,066 grants were paid out nationally compared to 1,349 in 2024. This represents an increase of 127%. 

Welcoming the new figures, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, said: 

“This grant is tackling the scourge of dereliction and vacancy head-on, and the surge in vacancy grant payments underlines its growing success in bringing homes back into use across our villages, towns, and cities, including here in Mayo.

Minister Browne says that as more applicants are approved, he anticipates that the trend will continue and more previously disused properties will become permanent homes for people. 

“In a time of housing shortage, leaving properties vacant is simply unacceptable. That’s why, last month, alongside extending the grant until 2030, I also introduced an enhanced support package of up to €140,000 to transform vacant ‘above shop’ spaces into homes—revitalising communities and creating sustainable housing. The extended support package will be made available at the end of Q1 2026.

“Tackling vacancy and dereliction is not just a priority, it’s a necessity to ensure existing properties are put to use for housing. I would encourage anybody in Mayo who is interested in availing of the scheme to check it out and engage with the local authority.” He added.

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Minister Alan Dillon said the grant is playing a vital role in tackling dereliction and vacancy in towns and villages across the county.

 “I’m delighted to see 195 homes brought back into use in Mayo. We all want to see vacant buildings in our towns and villages being lived in again, and this grant is proving key to turning them back into homes.

 "The impact of the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant in Mayo has been particularly strong. To date, 931 applications have been received in the county, with 696 approved and over €10.6 million in grant funding issued to homeowners on completion of works.

"These figures show the scale of demand in Mayo and the real difference this support is making in tackling vacancy, restoring older properties and helping more people create a home of their own,” he said.

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