Commercial building conversions paved way for 92 new homes in Westmeath

Westmeath County Council received 37 notifications to convert vacant commercial properties into housing between 2018 and 2024, paving the way for the potential delivery of 92 new homes.

The figures were published by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, TD, last week as he revealed that nationally 1,457 notifications have been submitted under planning exemptions in the same period, with the potential to deliver 3,429 homes.

The exemptions, introduced in 2018, removed the requirement for planning permission to convert certain commercial buildings into residential use.

Minister Browne said the measure is helping to make better use of vacant properties during a housing crisis.

“Planning exemptions play a vital role in unlocking the potential of vacant commercial buildings across the country and in Westmeath, making it much more straightforward to convert them into much needed homes,” he said.

He added that converting premises such as former pubs is a “practical community-focused solution” that not only boosts supply but also supports the Town Centre First Policy by regenerating towns and villages.

Nationally in 2024, the most common types of buildings earmarked for conversion were shops (31%), offices (23%), pubs (14%) and services (13%).

The Dept of Housing also highlighted its Bringing Back Homes Manual for the Reuse of Existing Buildings 2024, which offers guidance on schemes and building regulation updates for conversions.