Wicklow Sees Strong Uptake in Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme

Almost €3.5 million invested into turning empty Wicklow properties into family homes

This morning, new figures from the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant show that Wicklow is seeing strong growth in property refurbishment.

Over the course of 2025, 282 applications were received in the county, with 204 approved and 64 grants issued on completion of works, totaling nearly three and a half million euros.

In the final quarter alone, 13 grants worth €730,000 were issued, helping local properties get a fresh lease of life and supporting jobs in the construction and refurbishment sector.

Officials say the scheme is making a real difference, turning vacant and derelict properties into homes and workplaces across Wicklow.

It’s part of a wider national effort, but for Wicklow, the numbers show a county actively transforming its property landscape while boosting local economic activity.

Boost for Local Economy and Communities

Local leaders say the figures underscore how the VPRG scheme is helping to revitalize neighbourhoods, tackle vacancy and dereliction, and support jobs in construction and related sectors.

“The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is making a real difference here in Wicklow,” said a council spokesperson. “By turning unused buildings back into productive spaces, we’re not only improving the built environment but also encouraging investment and employment right across the county.”

National Context

While the Wicklow figures are part of a larger national programme — which saw over 16,000 total applications and nearly €247 million in grants issued nationwide by the end of 2025 — the progress at county level highlights the importance of local engagement with the scheme.

Looking Ahead

As the VPRG continues into 2026, Wicklow stakeholders are optimistic that property owners will remain engaged, and that the benefits of refurbishment — from increased housing supply to vibrant town centres — will continue to grow.

Tánaiste Simon Harris said:

“Tackling housing and delivering homes for people right across Wicklow and this country is my number one priority. Every single one of these refurbished homes were sitting empty and now they are family homes.

He added:

''I’ve seen the impact of dereliction in towns and villages across Wicklow. An empty building on a main street is an eyesore and hurts the community. This Government grant is helping to reverse that one property at a time.''

Minister Harris outlined how the scheme incentivises and encourages rapid change

“With almost €3.5 million now invested in Wicklow through this scheme, we’re seeing real momentum. The good news is there’s more to come with over 200 Wicklow applications having been approved and working their way through the system.

He has made this appeal to Wicklow vacant property owners:

“I want to encourage anyone in Wicklow who has a vacant or derelict property or thinking of buying one to look at the huge benefit of this grant. This grant offers up to €70,000 to bring a property back to life. This scheme has been extended to 2030 and there’s a new enhanced package of up to €140,000 coming for ‘above the shop’ conversions.”