Lowry encourages restructuring grant for derelict commercial property

A proposal for a new structure in the payment of Grant Assistance for the restoration of derelict and vacant shops and overhead accommodation across the country is being encouraged by Deputy Michael Lowry, who says that such a move is overdue and urgently needed.

‘Grant assistance made in staged payments would attract a greater number of property owners. Many have been reluctant to avail of the existing model, which offers either €50,000 in Vacant Property Grants or €70,000 in Derelict Property Grants, but this is only paid following completion of the work’ he says.

‘Revised plans would establish two new Grant Schemes to be paid in stages as work progresses. One of would be for accommodation above shop premises, while the second will be to renovate vacant and derelict commercial properties.

READ NEXT: Roscrea racer Nicole guests in Irish Strykers - and wins again!

‘These Grants would help regenerate businesses in towns across the country, as well as providing much-needed rental accommodation.

‘Vacant and dilapidated properties in key retail areas in our towns present a neglected image. They give a sense that a town is not doing well, that businesses cannot survive and trade. They look unsightly and cast a blight on nearby trading businesses.

‘However, it can be difficult and costly for a property owner to fund both structural and decorative improvements to a premises that is no longer generating any income, particularly if they will not receive Grant Assistance until the entire job is completed.

‘This problem can be overcome by making staged payments available to ensure that tradesmen are paid in a timely manner and will therefore be more inclined towards taking on such work.

READ NEXT: One Midlands town will receive new talking ATM machines

‘We must be cognisant of the fact that a significant number of these derelict retail premises have overhead living accommodation that could be made available for renting once refurbished. This could notably ease pressure on finding a place to live in many people in our towns and villages, and such accommodation would be close to all services, such as shops, health services, transport and schools.

‘Right across North Tipperary and in North West Kilkenny there are properties that could be given a new lease of life under such a scheme.

‘I will be advocating to increase the Grants Assistance available and to have it allocated in staged payments with a view to bringing such properties back into use when a proposal to this effect comes before the Government within the next few weeks’ concludes Deputy Lowry.