Cork to Transform 112 Commercial Properties into 234 New Homes

Up to 234 homes could emerge from the conversion of former commercial properties across Cork County, according to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. This initiative stems from planning notifications submitted to local authorities between 2018 and 2024, which indicate the potential transformation of 112 properties into residential units.

The introduction of planning exemptions in 2018 eliminated the need for planning permission for certain types of commercial properties to be converted into residential spaces. To determine whether a property qualifies for this exemption, owners must submit a Section 5 Declaration Request to their respective council. This process allows them to ascertain the eligibility of their site for conversion.

Recently, a commercial property on Princes Street in Cork city centre received approval from Cork City Council to convert three floors into three studio apartments. This decision highlights the practical application of the exemption scheme. In 2022, the exemption was further extended to include vacant pubs, enabling these spaces to serve as homes. Since then, the Department of Housing has reported 10 notifications related to vacant pubs in Cork County, potentially resulting in 31 new homes.

Despite the opportunities presented by these exemptions, strict conditions apply, and not all properties qualify. Some applications have been rejected due to “inadequate” potential living spaces. Christopher O’Sullivan, TD and Minister of State at the Department of Housing, emphasized the importance of utilizing vacant buildings during a housing crisis. He stated, “I feel very strongly about buildings lying often vacant in the middle of a housing crisis, and to be honest it is not acceptable if a conversion is possible. It is imperative that we convert suitable properties into homes.”

O’Sullivan expressed his commitment to activating these properties through planning exemptions, stating the need for towns and cities to adapt to the current demand for housing. He noted, “Transforming premises such as former pubs is a practical community-focused solution which, as well as streamlining the planning process, makes efficient use of existing infrastructure and services.”

This measure not only aims to increase the supply of homes but also aligns with the Town Centre First Policy, which seeks to rejuvenate communities across the country. By supporting regeneration efforts, the policy aims to create vibrant, sustainable communities.

Across Ireland, local authorities have received a total of 1,457 notifications to convert vacant commercial properties into new homes from 2018 to 2024. This initiative reflects a growing trend to address housing shortages by repurposing existing structures, thereby maximizing the use of urban spaces.