Two vacant properties in Waterford to be refurbed into residential units

Waterford City and County Council has awarded the contract for the refurbishment of two vacant properties in Cappoquin to Marlhill Construction Services Limited from Ardfinnan.

The properties were the former Fennell’s Pub and the former Unaicke’s Shop and were originally constructed in the mid-19th century.

Both will be refurbished for new commercial uses to boost the town’s commercial viability and bolster the traditional industry on Cappoquin’s main street.

The construction contract will transform the 185-year-old buildings into a 3-bed residential upper floor accommodation unit, and a 2-bed residential upper floor accommodation unit over two number ground floor commercial premises.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jason Murphy said, “This refurbishment project of the former Fennell’s Pub and Uniacke’s shop is a significant step in Cappoquin’s regeneration. Cappoquin is steeped in character and charm and is a jewel in Waterford’s crown.

“The Rural Regeneration & Development Fund (RRDF) investment and additional funding from Waterford City and County Council will not only help rejuvenate the town by supporting economic development, but it will also deliver new, energy-efficient homes for young people and their families to locate to, settle in and thrive in.”

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Dr. Ben Murphy, Chairperson and Director of Cappoquin Regeneration Company CLG, said that he and his fellow directors and members of Cappoquin Regeneration Company are delighted to see works progressing on the town.

“This is yet another milestone in Cappoquin’s regeneration and I would like to thank the people of Cappoquin for their vision and dedication, and also Waterford City and County Council and the Tomar Trust for the realisation of the Cappoquin Regeneration Project.”

The Department of Rural and Community Development is investing over €6m in the overall Cappoquin Regeneration Project through its Rural Regeneration & Development Fund (RRDF).

This investment is augmented by additional funding from Waterford City and County Council, the Cappoquin Regeneration Company and the Tomar Trust. The Regeneration Project aims to address vacancy and dereliction in the town centre and invest in the town centre’s public domain.

Extensive reconstruction, refurbishment and conservation works will be completed over the coming 12 months with the new properties ready for occupation by the later part of 2026.

Further projects currently in design development under the RRDF Regeneration Project include proposed public realm works at Market Square.