Councillor calls for stronger action on vacant and derelict homes in Leitrim

The Housing department of Leitrim County Council is currently progressing four redevelopment projects that will convert derelict properties into social housing units in Ballinamore, Mohill, Manorhamilton and Kiltyclogher.

Construction is underway in Manorhamilton for delivery in 2026.

Mary Quinn, Director of Services for Housing, told a meeting of Leitrim County Council that addressing vacancy and dereliction remains a top priority, despite the complexity of the issue.

This discussion followed a motion by Cllr Sean McGowan, who called on the Council to explore the acquisition of derelict houses in towns, villages and rural areas.

He sought for the Council to secure Government funding to restore these properties and provide housing for people on the waiting list in Leitrim.

In 2024, Leitrim recorded the highest residential vacancy rate in the country last year, with nearly 12 out of every 100 liveable houses unoccupied. Measures such as the Croí Cónaithe scheme, funded by the Department of Housing, are intended to address this by offering grants to support the renovation of vacant or derelict homes.

“I’m asking that the Council get a register of all the buildings within our towns and villages that are vacant including rural houses,” Cllr McGowan said.

“I accept that the Croí Cónaithe grant came in and some of the houses have been restored but there’s a large number of houses in this county that would fit into the derelict category.”

Cllr McGowan’s motion was seconded by several councillors.

However, Cllr Flynn expressed concern that the Croí Cónaithe is “not working,” suggesting it may be contributing to rising house prices.

Millions needed to clear LIS waiting list in Leitrim

Cllr Gary Prior proposed that the Council request meetings with Minister Dara Calleary and Minister Darragh O'Brien to seek additional funding for the LIS and CIS.

Since the scheme's launch in 2022, Leitrim has seen 239 applications, 178 approvals and 52 grants issued as of March 31.

Cllr Bohan and Cllr Stenson argued that the Council cannot carry out compulsory purchase orders for all vacant houses due to varied ownership circumstances, emphasising the need for voluntary participation.

Cllr Bohan also stated she believes the Croí Cónaithe scheme is working well, but advocated for increasing the grant and installed payments.

“We have to put some pressure on the people that have these derelict houses,” Cllr Warnock commented.

A Council response noted that the Croí Cónaithe scheme, initially limited to towns and villages, was expanded in November 2022 to include cities and rural areas. 

From May 1,2023, it also allows one rental property per applicant, alongside a primary residence.

This expansion is intended to boost the supply of private rental housing, which could eventually support tenants under the HAP, RAS or leasing schemes.

Ms Quinn also stated that while the Council has been placing notices on derelict sites, they haven’t been applying the levy - though this is being considered in time.

She added that the Council is planning a promotional event to raise awareness of the Croí Cónaithe scheme among property owners, aiming to increase uptake. This event is expected to take place before the summer season.

“The housing issue is the biggest issue facing Ireland. We have to step up to the mark and do everything we can to bring these homes back into life,” concluded Cllr McGowan.

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