Donegal County Council Launches Urgent Housing Info Sessions

UPDATE: Donegal County Council has just announced a series of urgent public information sessions aimed at addressing housing-related issues across the region. These sessions will provide vital information on several funding initiatives designed to assist residents in improving and adapting their homes.

The council is hosting these sessions in each Municipal District over the next few weeks, starting on November 18. These events are crucial for anyone facing housing challenges, including the refurbishment of vacant homes, adaptations for those with mobility needs, and enhancing energy efficiency in residences.

Attendees can expect to learn about numerous funding schemes, including the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme, which has already seen over €20 million disbursed for refurbishing 355 homes across Donegal. This initiative has received an impressive 1,423 applications, making it the most successful grant scheme of its kind in the country.

Local residents are encouraged to attend these sessions to gain crucial insights and support regarding various grants, such as:

• Housing Aid for Older People Grant
• Housing Adaptation Grant for Disabled People
• Mobility Aids Grant
• Local Authority Home Loans
• Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme
• Septic Tank Grant Scheme

Each session will run from 4 PM to 7 PM, with a dedicated presentation on the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme beginning at 4:30 PM. Key staff members will be available to answer questions and provide guidance on the application processes.

Local banks and credit unions will also be present to discuss financial support options, while the North West Energy Agency will outline energy upgrade options available through the SEAI. Facilitators from Donegal Local Development Company and Inishowen Development Partnership will share information on the Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme.

Cllr. Paul Canning, Cathaoirleach, emphasized the importance of these sessions, stating, “The primary purpose is to assist the public with information on various housing-related funding schemes and provide guidance on application processes. We aim to reach those who may not be aware of the available supports.”

The council’s efforts are not only about improving homes but also about providing affordable housing solutions for first-time buyers. The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme has been instrumental in revitalizing vacant homes, and the upcoming sessions will ensure that more residents can take advantage of these opportunities.

Here is the schedule for the upcoming information sessions:

• Carndonagh: Tuesday, November 18, 4 PM – 7 PM, Carndonagh Public Services Centre, F93 NR70
• Letterkenny: Thursday, November 20, 4 PM – 7 PM, Letterkenny Public Services Centre, Letterkenny, F92 TNY3
• Donegal Town: Monday, November 24, 4 PM – 7 PM, Donegal Town Public Services Centre, F94 DH6C
• An Clochán Liath: Thursday, November 27, 4 PM – 7 PM, Dungloe Public Services Centre, F94 WV84
• Ballybofey/Stranorlar: Monday, December 1, 4 PM – 7 PM, The Base, Stranorlar, F93 A0E4

Residents are urged to attend these sessions to discover how they can enhance their living conditions and access funding that could significantly improve their quality of life. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with key services and gather essential information!