Urgent CPOs Issued for Derelict Properties Across Ireland

UPDATE: Local councils in Ireland are ramping up efforts to tackle the housing crisis by initiating compulsory purchase orders (CPOs) for derelict properties. Just last month, Cork County Council and Limerick City and County Council applied for CPOs on multiple abandoned sites, signaling a renewed commitment to address the urgent need for social housing.

As of September 2024, boarded-up houses and dilapidated buildings remain a stark reminder of Ireland’s pressing housing challenges. The government’s strategy hinges on revitalizing these neglected properties to alleviate social housing shortages. Authorities confirmed that the CPO process began for six specific properties, underscoring a proactive approach to restoring community integrity.

In a significant move, Cork County Council filed for the acquisition of Rock Cottage in Ringaskiddy, a site that has been long abandoned. Photographs reveal a cottage overrun with foliage, its windows boarded up, and surrounded by an unsightly fence. The council’s report indicates that the last known owner, identified as Frances Ahern, is believed to be deceased, complicating ownership claims. After receiving objections from interested parties, the council emphasized that if no valid ownership documents are presented, they will proceed with the CPO.

Meanwhile, Limerick City and County Council applied for CPOs on several notable sites including 47 Windmill Street, a two-storey property near the River Shannon, which has been derelict for a “considerable period.” The owner reported ongoing vandalism but lacked the funds for necessary repairs. The council highlighted ongoing community concerns regarding anti-social behavior linked to the site, making the case for immediate action.

Another site, 43 Nicholas Street, is also in the council’s sights. This mid-terrace commercial property has shown signs of trespassing and neglect, prompting the council to push for acquisition after unsuccessful attempts to engage the owner. Despite an initial expression of willingness to sell, the owner has since objected to the CPO, citing health issues.

In Cappamore, 11 St Mary’s Terrace has been identified as an architecturally listed building that has fallen into disrepair. The council has tried to acquire it since 2018, but previous attempts were thwarted by the owner’s refusal. Now, with the property still vacant, the council has submitted a new CPO application, citing ongoing neglect.

Lastly, 2 Rosbrien Terrace has also been flagged for CPO. The property is severely dilapidated, prompting complaints from neighbors about its impact on the community. Despite contact attempts with the deceased owner’s relatives, the council is proceeding with the CPO to restore the site.

With only 44 CPO applications recorded throughout 2024, these recent actions highlight a critical shift in local authorities’ approach to tackling dereliction. The move not only aims to revitalize neighborhoods but also seeks to enhance safety and community pride.

As the CPO process unfolds, officials and community members are keenly watching how these developments will impact the housing crisis in Ireland. The urgency of restoring these properties emphasizes the need for immediate action to alleviate the growing demand for housing.

Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops and more properties are brought back into productive use.