Millions paid out as almost 80 vacant homes brought back to life in Waterford last year

More than €4.2 million has been paid out to Waterford homeowners under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, with 79 previously vacant properties brought back into use across the county last year.

New figures released by Minister of State for Planning and Local Government John Cummins TD show strong momentum behind the scheme locally, with 390 applications submitted in Waterford to date and 221 already approved.

The grants are helping to transform vacant houses, derelict buildings and former commercial properties into homes, with a growing pipeline of projects now underway across Waterford.

Welcoming the figures, Minister Cummins said the scheme is “tackling the scourge of dereliction and vacancy head-on”, adding that the surge in payments highlights its growing impact at a local level.

“The surge in vacancy grant payments underlines the scheme’s growing success in bringing homes back into use across our villages, towns and cities including here in Waterford,” he said.

“As more and more applications are approved, I fully anticipate this trend to continue, with more previously disused properties becoming permanent homes for people.”

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The Waterford figures form part of a wider national uplift, with 3,066 grants paid out nationwide in 2025, more than double the number paid in 2024. Since the scheme launched in 2022, almost €247 million has been paid out nationally to support refurbishment works.

Minister Cummins said tackling vacancy is essential amid the ongoing housing shortage.

“In a time of housing shortage, leaving properties vacant and derelict is simply unacceptable,” he said.

“That’s why, last month alongside extending the grant until 2030, I also announced an enhanced support package of up to €140,000 to transform vacant ‘above shop’ spaces into homes—revitalising communities and creating sustainable housing.”

That enhanced support is expected to be available from the end of Q1 2026.

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Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, homeowners can receive up to €70,000 to refurbish a vacant or derelict property for use as a permanent home or rental accommodation, with payments made once works are completed and approved.

Minister Cummins encouraged anyone considering the scheme to explore it further.

“Tackling vacancy and dereliction is not just a priority, it’s a necessity,” he said.

“I would encourage anybody in Waterford City and County who is interested in availing of the scheme to check it out and engage with their local authority.”