Leitrim County Council to host FREE ‘Turning Vacant Properties into Cosy Homes’ showcase

Leitrim County Council is hosting an information event to showcase the potential to transform vacant and derelict properties in County Leitrim into vibrant homes.

The event, taking place on Thursday June 19, from 3pm to 8pm, in the Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon, will also exhibit how to make existing homes warmer, greener, and more energy efficient.

The Keynote Speaker on the day will be award-winning architect and TV personality Hugh Wallace.

The main aim of the event is to showcase existing and prospective property owners in County Leitrim, the potential to transform these vacant and derelict properties into vibrant, cosy homes.

With a residential vacancy rate of almost 12%, Leitrim holds untapped potential to bring properties back into use, helping to increase housing supply while also revitalising our communities.

Grants of up to €70,000 are available under the Croí Cónaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment Scheme to rejuvenate and renew these vacant and derelict properties. So there has never been a better time to transform these properties into cosy homes.

Whether you're a homeowner, investor, or simply curious, this event is for you. The event will provide attendees with the opportunity to meet the Leitrim Vacant Homes Team. Individuals who have already been through the journey of breathing new life into their once vacant, neglected properties will also be in attendance to relay their real-life experience of navigating the process.

The event will also explore practical ways to make your existing home warmer, more sustainable, and energy efficient. Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the Sligo-Leitrim Energy Agency will be on hand to provide guidance, share upgrade solutions, and answer any questions you may have about improving your home's energy performance.

For more information on the different grants available through the SEAI - please see their website.

Keynote speaker on the day, Hugh Wallace, has confirmed his excitement at being involved in the event. “I’m absolutely delighted that Leitrim County Council is helping people discover the incredible potential in transforming vacant and derelict buildings into vibrant homes and businesses. Across Ireland, there are thousands of empty properties—particularly in rural towns—these were once the heart of the community and can be once again.

“With the support of the Council and access to the Vacant and Derelict Homes Grant, people now have the tools and information they need to breathe new life into these buildings. I’ve said it a million times before and it still rings true—the most sustainable building is the one that’s already built!

“Leitrim County Council’s enthusiasm and ‘can-do’ attitude is truly commendable, and I’m very much looking forward to being part of their Information Event – ‘Turning Vacant Properties into Cosy Homes’. If you’re thinking about doing up an old building, I strongly urge you to come along and see how your dream can become a reality.”

Exhibition stands will be open from 3pm, with the official welcome by the Cathaoirleach of Leitrim County Council, Councillor Paddy O’Rourke at 5.30pm. 

This will be followed by the keynote speakers including award-winning architect and TV personality Hugh Wallace.

COMPETITION:

If you register before 4pm on June 12, you may be in with a chance to win an exclusive one-to-one consultation with award-winning architect Hugh Wallace on the day of the event!

If your name is drawn, you will be contacted and you must be in a position to provide your draft plans and Eircode to Leitrim County Council in advance of the event to be considered for the consultation opportunity.

So, take the first step in your journey towards revitalising Leitrim by restoring your vacant property and register to attend this unmissable event click here!.

There is no cost to attend and while pre-registration is recommended, walk-ins are welcome on the day.

For more information about ‘Turning Vacant Properties into Cosy Homes’’ see our website leitrim.ie and check out our social medial platforms - Facebook, X or Instagram

Contact us by email at turningvacantpropertiesintocosyhomes@leitrimcoco.ie.

Calling all Exhibitors!

We are inviting interested organisations to showcase their expertise in the exhibition area of the Event and are seeking participation from the following:

* Credit Unions & Banks
* Auctioneers & Solicitors
* Retrofit and Sustainability Experts
* Architects and Energy Advisors
* Insulation Providers
* Window and Door Suppliers

You can register your interest in participating as an Exhibitor by visiting Leitrim County Council’s website leitrim.ie and by using the link provided under the Turning Vacant Properties into Cosy Homes Event Page.

Exhibitor Ticket

Please note that Exhibitor spaces are offered free of charge but are limited. Should you wish to register as an Exhibitor please do so before 4pm on Wednesday, June 11 2025.

If you require any further information or details on the event, please email us now.

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