Planning exemptions could deliver 175 new homes in Tipperary

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, has released figures showing that between 2018 and 2024, local authorities received 1,457 notifications to convert vacant commercial properties into homes, potentially creating 3,429 new residential units nationwide.

In Tipperary, 175 notifications were submitted under planning exemptions, paving the way for 98 new homes. Planning exemptions, introduced in 2018, remove the need for planning permission to convert certain commercial properties into residential units.

In 2022, the Government extended the scheme to allow vacant pubs to be converted into homes. Since then, Tipperary has received seven notifications for former pubs, with the potential to provide 14 new homes.

Commenting on the figures, Minister Browne said:
“Planning exemptions play a vital role in unlocking the potential of vacant commercial buildings across the country and in Tipperary, making it much easier to convert them into much-needed homes. Buildings lying vacant in the middle of a housing crisis is simply not acceptable. Where exemptions can activate these properties, I want it to happen. We want our towns and cities to be living and working areas, and adapting them to meet the housing need is imperative. Transforming premises such as former pubs is a practical, community-focused solution that makes efficient use of existing infrastructure.”

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Nationally, the commercial properties showing the highest potential for conversion in 2024 are former shops (31% of notifications), offices (23%), public houses (14%), and service premises (13%).

Supporting this initiative, the Bringing Back Homes Manual 2024 provides guidance on repurposing vacant and derelict buildings for residential use, detailing available schemes and updates to building regulations.

Minister Browne added:
“This measure not only boosts the supply of homes but also supports our Town Centre First Policy, breathing new life into villages, towns, and cities by encouraging regeneration and more vibrant, sustainable communities.”

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