Weekly Irish property market news and insights – for the industry, by the industry  

 

Before we get stuck into the general property news of the week, below are the local and international stories that might be of particular interest: 

 

• From the strategic to the creative, Property District is Ireland’s leading communications agency for the planning, construction and property sectors. As a full-service communications agency, we specialise in helping your business create a dynamic brand, generate buzz around its projects, products and services, and we help you to attract new customers and team members. Our experienced team includes strategic marketers, PR/publicists, journalists, copywriters and social media experts who know what it takes to make sure your message is heard. We offer customised integrated tactics and creative campaigns, executing them with precision to ensure you stand out from the competition and achieve your goals. Email info@propertydistrict.ie to chat through some strategies for your business

 

• Number of homeless in State reaches 11,988, latest figures show: Some 1,639 families living in homeless accommodation, more than half of which are single-parent families https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/04/28/number-of-homeless-in-state-reaches-11988-latest-figures-show/

 

• Is the Irish housing bubble about to burst? https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2023/0427/1378859-ireland-europe-housing-market-analysis-spring-2023/

 

• ‘Disaster’ coming if housing isn’t fixed, head of 2008 crash inquiry warns: Ciarán Lynch has warned of a disaster ‘coming down the tracks if this problem isn’t fixed’. https://www.thejournal.ie/housing-disaster-could-be-coming-says-former-banking-crisis-head-6055755-Apr2023/ Also: FactFind: Was the 2008 crash caused by building too many houses? A suggestion Ireland risks building too many homes ignited controversy.  https://www.thejournal.ie/is-ireland-risking-an-oversupply-of-housing-6055772-Apr2023/

 

• Housing crisis a ‘threat’ to economic growth, warns rating agency https://m.independent.ie/business/housing-crisis-a-threat-to-economic-growth-warns-rating-agency/a218921408.html

 

• Snapshot of Housing Shortage Impact on Irish Businesses https://www.european-views.com/2023/04/snapshot-of-housing-shortage-impact-on-irish-businesses/amp/ 

 

• Housing expert’s ‘oversupply’ warning amid record levels of homelessness https://extra.ie/2023/04/27/news/irish-news/housing-warning-homelessness

 

 

• Cabinet agrees extra measures to get more homes built more quickly, including scrapping development levies; higher grants to bring more vacant property back into use; getting work started under Cost Rental on thousands of affordable rental apartments https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/64131-cabinet-agrees-extra-measures-to-get-more-homes-built-more-quickly/?referrer=http://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/e4fe6-cabinet-agrees-extra-measures-to-get-more-homes-built-more-quickly/#

 

 

• Development levies exempted for 12 months, saving an average of €12,650 per home: This will help to deliver some 70,000 to 80,000 units that fall under the inactive planning permissions already in the pipeline. https://www.thejournal.ie/housing-development-levies-cabinet-6052558-Apr2023/

 

 

• Criticism of the new initiatives: Removal of residential construction levy is a ‘gift’ to developers, committee hears: Scrapping of levy will leave taxpayers footing the bill for paying the levy to local authorities, says Senator  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/04/25/removal-of-residential-construction-levy-is-a-gift-to-developers-committee-hears/

 

• State interventions in housing market may do more harm than good: It looks increasingly like the government has little control over whether its own targets are met, as the private market reacts in negative ways to its attempted solutions  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/state-interventions-in-housing-market-may-do-more-harm-than-good/

 

• Councils sat on €151m affordable housing budget: Almost 90 per cent of available funds for past two years have been left unspent https://www.businesspost.ie/news/councils-sat-on-e151m-affordable-housing-budget/

 

 

• Over 1,600 applications to vacant property scheme https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-41124748.html

 

• Farmers face €100,000 bills under residential land tax plan: Irish Farmers Association estimates hundreds of its members could be hit with 3 per cent annual levy of market value https://www.businesspost.ie/news/farmers-face-e100000-bills-under-residential-land-tax-plan/

 

• Radical measures required to address chronic housing shortage: We must prevent a haemorrhage of skilled workers by permitting the immediate residential use of the two upper stories of approved suitable commercial buildings across the country https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/commentanalysis/arid-41124295.html

 

• ‘Very strong’ new rules at An Bord Pleanála to avoid conflicts of interest: Interim chair Oonagh Buckley says efforts under way to hire new director of legal services https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/04/20/very-strong-new-rules-at-an-bord-pleanala-to-avoid-conflicts-of-interest/

 

• Bord Pleanála chair ‘very sorry’ for remarks about planning expert Fred Logue: The interm chair of the planning authority previously said judicial reviews are “very lucrative” for solicitors https://www.businesspost.ie/news/bord-pleanala-chair-very-sorry-for-remarks-about-planning-expert-fred-logue/

 

 

• Opinion: We must act now to deal with this accommodation crisis: Referring to this as a housing crisis not only understates the severity of the challenges, but implies we simply need to build more houses https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/24/opinion-we-must-act-now-to-deal-with-this-accommodation-crisis/

 

 

• Facts behind vacant homes debate: Whether policymakers know it or not, trying to minimize vacancy is trying to bring about a system that puts housing before people. If it came to it, which would we rather have: people with homes, or homes without people? https://thecurrency.news/articles/116324/taking-stock-the-facts-behind-the-vacant-homes-debate/

 

• First batch of 200 modular homes for Ukrainian refugees to be ready next month: A target of delivering 700 units has been missed by Government. https://www.thejournal.ie/modular-homes-ukrainian-refugees-2-6053625-Apr2023/

 

• Derogation of Part 8 planning process a ‘dangerous precedent’, say cllrs https://dublinpeople.com/news/southside/articles/2023/04/24/derogation-of-part-8-planning-process-a-dangerous-precedent-say-cllrs/?amp=1

 

• Auctioneers call for ‘tax-free’ credit of €6,000 for landlords: Rent Pressure Zone rules should also be relaxed, says Ipav https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/24/auctioneers-call-for-tax-free-credit-of-6000-for-landlords/

 

 

Self Build 

• Delighted to see this. One-off housing delivers 5,000-7,000 new homes per year, irrespective of market conditions, and we need to embrace people’s choice to live on their own land, outside of urban centres: One-off rural housing to continue under new guidelines: Push towards compact settlements will see dramatic increase in density requirements for residential housing in towns, cities and suburbs https://www.businesspost.ie/article/one-off-rural-housing-to-continue-under-new-guidelines/

 

• But: Special meeting sought over planning crux in rural Limerick, as one-off housing is, in effect, banned https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/1153575/special-meeting-sought-over-planning-crux-in-rural-limerick.html

 

• Also: The UK government thinks that self-building could be the answer to the country’s housing problems – yet local authorities around Ireland see these as a ‘scourge’ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/property/news/self-build-house-construction-costs-planning-permission/

 

 

• Issues over illegal log cabin in South Tipp rumbles on https://tippfm.com/news/housing/issues-illegal-log-cabin-south-tipp-rumbles/

 

• Peter McVerry Trust appoints Francis Doherty as chief executive: Incoming chief says focus will remain on building housing stock and argues provision of social housing cannot not be left to State alone https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2023/04/24/peter-mcverry-trust-appoints-francis-doherty-as-chief-executive/

 

• Niall Collins responds to claims about his wife’s purchase of property in Limerick https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/niall-collins-responds-to-claims-about-his-wifes-purchase-of-property-in-limerick-1466998.html

 

• Council wants to hear from land/unfinished developments owners in Mayo https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/04/24/council-wants-to-hear-from-land-unfinished-developments-owners-in-mayo/

 

• We need a ‘lemon law’ to make all the homes we buy and rent more energy-efficient https://theconversation.com/we-need-a-lemon-law-to-make-all-the-homes-we-buy-and-rent-more-energy-efficient-204369

 

• Hundreds of letters of support sent to judge ahead of Kerry developer’s US sentencing: Ballinskelligs native Dónal O’Sullivan faces prospect of 20-year jail term in US after being convicted of fraud https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41127805.html

 

• Plans approved for Britain’s first women’s-only tower block: 15-storey tower in west London will offer homes to women who face inequality and abuse https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/apr/28/plans-approved-for-britains-first-womens-only-tower-block

 

• Well done to Owen Reilly and his team on the official opening of the company’s newest branch located in the heart of Dublin 4. The company plans to hire five staff in 2023 for the Ballsbridge location to fill various sales and management roles: https://www.irishrealestate.news/estate-agent-owen-reilly-launches-fourth-branch-office-in-the-heart-of-ballsbridge/

 

 

If you missed last week’s round-up, you can catch up here: https://propertydistrict.ie/sunday-roundup/ 

As always, you might let me know if I have missed out on any relevant property news by emailing  carol@propertydistrict.ie.

(Apologies in advance for any typos, it’s difficult to get good help on a Sunday. Also, I use voice to text dictation so just sound out anything that really doesn’t make sense in a strong rural accent and that should help!)

 

SUNDAY LISTEN

We are excited to share the growth of iPropertyRadio! What started as #PropertyMatters, a 60-minute weekly show on Dublin South FM 93.9FM over 4 years ago, has now evolved into a global online station for the best construction, urban planning, property and proptech content. Check out our website, iPropertyRadio.com, brought to you by Hear Me Roar Media for live and recorded access to all the week’s built environment news. 

 

Want to have your industry podcast included or be a guest on our shows? Reach out to us at hello@ipropertyradio.com. Last year, we hit a massive 7.5 million digital impressions across our brands and this figure is growing – Q4 2022/Q1 2023 we now have an  average of 765,876 digital impressions each month, not including radio listenership and website visits. Huge thanks to all of you for your continued support!

This week on iPropertyRadio… 

 

#Property Roundup

*Housing Crisis or Housing Emergency?*

John Hannigan, CEO of Circle Voluntary Housing Association joins us to discuss reclassifying our housing crisis as a housing emergency and what impact this would have.  John also breaks down delivery under the Housing For All scheme and explains why he believes current social housing targets are not robust enough.   

Listen back to the interview to hear about funding mechanisms, social housing delivery and learn just how important Approved Housing Bodies are to achieving these goals. 

 

Watch/ listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/property-matters/

 

#Proptech Hot Seat

*Helping Corporations Meet Their ESG Goals*

In the iPropertyRadio.com Proptech Hot Seat with host Carol Tallon this week is Matt Ellis, CEO & Co-Founder of Measurabl, the world’s fastest-growing sustainability software, to discuss what Measurabl is and how it helps corporations achieve their ESG goals. 

Listen back to the full interview to hear Matt voice his insights on the real estate industry and give an overview of his long term goals for Measurabl.  Find out who the customers are and what problems Measurabl is helping them to solve. 

 

*Proptech Hot seat is sponsored by Proptech Ireland, the hub for innovators, investors and industry leaders.*

 

Watch/ listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/proptech-hot-seat/

 

 

#BreakingGround

*The Self-Build Journey*

This week on #BreakingGround host Carol Tallon chats to Tom and Ana Woods, selfbuilders in Mayo who – following a fruitless property search in and around Dublin – chose to purchase a site with a partially constructed building and are now in the process of turning it into their dream home. They are using direct labour hands – mainly their own, relying heavily on Tom’s dad (warning: self builders listening in will want to borrow Tom’s dad!).  

They join to discuss why they decided on the journey of self building, issues they ran into turn the pandemic and how they managed escalating construction costs.

*Breaking Ground is sponsored by PLACEengage – Your Virtual Town Hall  a data-driven platform for more successful public consultation and community engagement for your next development project*

 

Watch back and listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/shows/

 

Produced by Katie Tallon, with Hear Me Roar Media on sound https://hearmeroarmedia.com/

 

PLACEMAKING

OPEN PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• How to engage the community in placemaking in 2023 | PLACEengage  https://placeengage.com/how-to-engage-the-community-in-placemaking-in-2023/

 

• The lady at the council asked if I had a car to sleep in, says homeless mother https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2023/0423/1378615-housing-search/

 

• Next steps for public realm improvements to New Street in Malahide outlined https://www.fingal.ie/news/next-steps-public-realm-improvements-new-street-malahide-outlined

 

• Independent review of Dublin port expansion needed, say Sandymount residents: Stacks of ‘rusty containers’ would have ‘dreadful impact’ on area and marine biosphere, warn Dublin 4 locals https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2023/04/24/independent-review-of-dublin-port-expansion-needed-say-sandymount-residents/ Also; Local Residents Oppose Dublin Port Plans: Locals residents near Dublin Docks are calling on the Environment Minister to reconsider the proposed expansion of the Port https://www.98fm.com/news/local-residents-oppose-dublin-port-plans-1459040

 

• Padraig Harrington opens brand new free golf putting green at Marlay Park: The Dublin golf legend was on hand to open the unique facility which will delight young and old who have an interest in the sport https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/padraig-harrington-opens-brand-new-26767237.amp

 

• Dog toilet’ area installed on Dublin street to help solve pet poo problem https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/lifestyle/dog-toilet-area-installed-on-dublin-street-to-help-solve-pet-poo-problem/a1561333860.html

 

• Anne Enright on Dublin, A Writer’s City: every house a writer, a character, a connection. Everyone thought they had something to say: The city insists, decade after decade, a century ago and next year, in nurturing, goading and facilitating some of the most vibrant literature to be found in the English speaking world https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/books/review/2023/04/29/anne-enright-on-dublin-a-writers-city-a-compendious-companion/

 

• Surge in pensioners seeking help in Cork since eviction ban lifted says debt advice service: Threat of eviction piled on top of cost of living crisis warns Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/surge-pensioners-seeking-help-cork-26766691

 

• 250-year-old coach house in Cork brought back to life for artists: Minister McGrath cut the ribbon of the Coach House at Greywood Arts in Killeagh today https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41126368.html

 

• Council apologises for not translating draft County Development Plan into Irish https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41124520.html

 

• Talks ongoing to resolve Marina Market planning issues: Marina Market owners made an application for retention of change of use for the site on the former Southern Fruits Distribution Company Warehouse at Kennedy Quay last year https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41125735.html

 

• Cork attractions make list of most visited OPW heritage sites in 2022: The Office of Public Works (OPW) announced on Tuesday that the number of recorded visitors last year exceeded 15 million, up by 2.3 million on 2021, an increase of 18%. https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41124823.html

 

• ‘If I didn’t take a remote job I’d have to live in Dublin or London. I felt more peace in Cork’: Social Enterprises: a series that looks at how different social enterprises work to enhance the lives of people with diverse social, physical or psychological needs https://www.irishtimes.com/health/your-wellness/2023/04/28/if-i-didnt-take-a-remote-job-id-have-to-live-in-dublin-or-london-i-felt-more-peace-in-cork/

 

 

 

• Phase 1 of Cork City to Passage West Greenway officially opened: 3km greenway provides a high-quality recreational and commuter corridor between Cork City Docklands and Mahon tracing the route of the 19th century Cork, Blackrock, and Passage Railway linehttps://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41127541.html

 

• Reimagining Ireland’s cities to make them efficient, sustainable and a pleasure to live in: Galway can follow the lead of other European cities where everything residents could want or need is within easy walking distance https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/04/26/reimagining-irelands-cities-to-make-them-efficient-sustainable-and-a-pleasure-to-live-in/

 

• Survey finds 70% Galway businesses reducing hiring targets due to accommodation shortage https://connachttribune.ie/survey-finds-70-galway-businesses-reducing-hiring-targets-due-to-accommodation-shortage/

 

• Salthill Knocknacarra GAA tweaks pitches plan following consultations https://connachttribune.ie/salthill-knocknacarra-gaa-tweaks-pitches-plan-following-consultations/amp/

 

• Housing crisis is hitting hospitality sector hard in Galway https://connachttribune.ie/housing-crisis-is-hitting-hospitality-sector-hard-in-galway/

 

• Works commence to deliver high speed broadband to 5,000 premises in Kilkerrin, Lettermore and Duniry https://connachttribune.ie/works-commence-to-deliver-high-speed-broadband-to-5000-premises-in-kilkerrin-lettermore-and-duniry/amp/

 

• Public consultation begins as draft plan for Limerick town is launched https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/1153237/public-of-limerick-district-called-to-have-their-say-on-the-future-of-their-area.html

 

• Limerick council has plans afoot for Milk Market area https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/04/24/limerick-council-has-plans-afoot-for-milk-market-area/

 

• Plans for five new commercial units in Kilkenny https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/business/1156493/plans-for-five-new-commercial-units-in-kilkenny.html

 

• Revised Loughmacask plan for Kilkenny city’s newest neighbourhood now on view: You’re invited to have your say https://kclr96fm.com/revised-loughmacask-plan-for-kilkenny-citys-newest-neighbourhood-now-on-view/

 

• NTA cites risks that could put brakes on BusConnects scheme: Delivery of bigger, better and cleaner urban public transport systems under threat from issues including planning hurdles and financial uncertaintyhttps://www.businesspost.ie/news/nta-cites-risks-that-could-put-brakes-on-busconnects-scheme/

 

• Navan section of greenway opens completing an 8km stretch of the cycle and walking path as far as Wilkinstown https://www.meathchronicle.ie/2023/04/24/navan-section-of-greenway-opens-completing-an-8km-stretch-of-the-cycle-and-walking-path-as-far-as-wilkinstown/

 

• New €1.1 million Sligo childcare facility to open this summer creating 25 jobs: This will be the second Cre8ive Corner Creche in Sligo, with the first being located at Sea Road for the past decade https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligochampion/news/new-11-million-sligo-childcare-facility-to-open-this-summer-creating-25-jobs-42445758.html

 

• Refugee housing at former psych hospital could see local building restored https://www.shannonside.ie/news/refugee-housing-at-former-psych-hospital-could-see-local-building-restored-222526

 

• Study examining feasibility of covering Tralee’s Square expected to be completed by year-end https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/study-examining-feasibility-of-covering-tralees-square-expected-to-be-completed-by-year-end-328466

 

• Rosslare’s retention of summer tourists labelled ‘pathetic’ as Wexford County Council accused of ‘lack of vision’ https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/wexford-district/rosslares-retention-of-summer-tourists-labelled-pathetic-as-wexford-county-council-accused-of-lack-of-vision/a831748152.html

 

• Safety work is needed at former Murphy Floods hotel site in Enniscorthy https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/enniscorthy-news/safety-work-is-needed-at-former-murphy-floods-hotel-site-in-enniscorthy/42443516.html

 

• Islands of Ireland: An island hiding away in the Kerry mountains: This Kerry island can be reached by paddling from the shore when the water levels are low — about knee deep https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/outdoors/arid-41121037.html

 

• Let’s not repeat the mistakes of the past by failing to protect our heritage: Ireland’s cultural heritage must be protected. The Historic and Archaeological Heritage Bill needs to be strengthened in order to do this properly https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/commentanalysis/arid-41125882.html

 

• Burning down the big house: ‘It is only right to say the raiders were excessively polite’: Almost 300 large country houses owned by former Anglo-Irish landlords were burned during 1920-1923. Why were so many destroyed?  https://www.irishtimes.com/history/century/2023/04/25/burning-down-the-big-house-it-is-only-right-to-say-the-raiders-were-excessively-polite/

 

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

 

• Housing Measures: What has changed and what impact will it have? https://www.rte.ie/news/2023/0430/1379944-housing-analysis/

 

• Housing completions up 19% as momentum carries forward from 2022: Apartments account for more than a third of new homes for first time in 12 years with 2,427 completed in first quarter https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/26/housing-completions-up-19-as-momentum-carries-forward-from-2022/

 

• Public Practice: How I found a fulfilling career as an architect – Making the transition from private practice into the public sector brings professional rewards and new challenges https://www.bdonline.co.uk/opinion/public-practice-how-i-found-a-fulfilling-career-as-an-architect/5122671.article

 

• Minister Harris launches financial and training supports for employers taking on apprentices https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/e56f4-minister-harris-launches-financial-and-training-supports-for-employers-taking-on-apprentices/

 

• Maxol in ‘advanced’ talks to acquire more land and sites: Forecourt retailer has acquired 25 new sites over the past decade https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/27/maxol-in-advanced-talks-to-acquire-more-land-and-sites/

 

• Opportunity knocks: a post-crash property market and a Dublin business park: Health coach connected to Nama-bound developer ended up with half share in heavily indebted East Wall business park https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/28/inside-the-confused-world-of-post-crash-property-development/

 

• Housing Minister turned the sod to commence development of 133 cost rental apartments at Belgard Square North in Tallaght. JJ Rhatigan have been appointed by the Council for the construction works with the development expected to be completed in 2025.

https://dublinpeople.com/news/southside/articles/2023/04/26/64364/

 

• DCC greenlights Dublin housing development but reduces height by two storeys: The scheme faced some local opposition and in an objection signed by more than 30 residents, it raised traffic concerns over the proposal. https://www.thejournal.ie/ddc-approves-housing-development-dublin-reduces-storeys-6054062-Apr2023/

 

• Glasnevin industrial site offers potential for thousands of homes: Dublin City Council initiates plans for regeneration of Dublin Industrial Estate https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2023/04/27/glasnevin-industrial-site-offers-potential-for-thousands-of-homes/

 

• Anglo Irish Bank’s old Dublin HQ is due for demolition. We shouldn’t let this award-winner disappear: Frank McDonald: The building, designed by the Irish architect Andy Devane, has stood the test of time https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/art/2023/04/26/anglo-irish-banks-old-dublin-hq-is-due-for-demolition-we-shouldnt-let-this-award-winner-disappear/

 

• Golfgate organiser Donie Cassidy’s hotel group plans to create 90-bed hotel in Dublin  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/golfgate-organiser-donie-cassidys-hotel-group-plans-to-create-90-bed-hotel-in-dublin/a1959184972.html

 

• Residential ‘pods’ to be built next to mental health site in Cork: The HSE has received planning permission to build on the site of Millfield House in Blackpool https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41127538.html

 

• Major Galway housing development planned as massive build awaits decision: The units are badly needed in the area https://www.galwaybeo.ie/news/ireland-news/major-galway-housing-development-planned-8382208

 

• Seapoint owner told redevelopment proposals ‘must be scaled back’ https://connachttribune.ie/seapoint-owner-told-redevelopment-proposals-must-be-scaled-back/

 

• Plans lodged for new factory at IDA Business Park in Ballinasloe https://connachttribune.ie/plans-lodged-for-new-factory-at-ida-business-park-in-ballinasloe/

 

• University of Limerick seeks planning to add student accommodation at landmark site https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/1151333/university-of-limerick-seeks-planning-to-add-student-accommodation-at-landmark-site.html

 

• Limerick company resumed quarrying despite court undertaking https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/04/28/limerick-company-resumed-quarrying-despite-court-undertaking/

 

• Concerns over structural guarantees at new Waterford housing estate allayed https://www.wlrfm.com/news/concerns-over-structural-guarantees-at-new-waterford-housing-estate-allayed-303604

 

• Kilkenny city site with full planning permission for hotel seeks €3.75m: Plot at John’s Green and Wolfe Tone Street has approval for 114-bedroom hotel along with bar and restaurant  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/04/26/kilkenny-city-site-with-full-planning-permission-for-hotel-seeks-375m/

 

• Plans for new Wicklow town centre apartments and shops scrapped https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/wicklow-district/plans-for-new-wicklow-town-centre-apartments-and-shops-scrapped/a1469965291.html

 

• Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien turns sod on Mount Avenue Link Road Scheme https://www.lmfm.ie/news/lmfm-news/minister-for-housing-darragh-obrien-turns-sod-on-mount-avenue-link-road-scheme/

 

• Large-scale housing development in Drogheda gets the go-ahead from An Bord Pleanála https://m.independent.ie/regionals/louth/drogheda-news/large-scale-housing-development-in-drogheda-gets-the-go-ahead-from-an-bord-pleanala/a1047628265.html

 

• Garage in Laois village invests in €170,000 council site https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/business/1155705/garage-in-laois-village-invests-in-170-000-council-site.html

 

• Green light for 33-house development in Mayo’s county town https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/04/28/green-light-for-33-house-development-in-mayos-county-town/

 

• No resolution in sight for major Mayo project left in no man’s land https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/04/29/no-resolution-in-sight-for-major-mayo-project-left-in-no-mans-land/

 

• Arrow Global expands real estate capabilities with Eagle Street purchase https://realassets.ipe.com/news/arrow-global-expands-real-estate-capabilities-with-eagle-street-purchase/10066343.article

 

• How construction in Ireland is changing – My Job: Joanne Treacy, head of Southern Region Services, Construction Industry Federation https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41126017.html

 

• Construction companies deliver new education and health facilities in the UK and Ireland https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/planning-construction-news/companies-deliver-education-and-health-facilities/125311/

 

• Coillte warns higher costs will bite this year https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/coillte-warns-higher-costs-will-bite-this-year/a1770910549.html

 

• Two housing projects by Indian construction giant stall over unpaid bills: Shapoorji Pallonji owes up to €2 million to a range of trade creditors, who sources say risk ‘being burned’ if it exits Irish market https://www.businesspost.ie/news/two-housing-projects-by-indian-construction-giant-stall-over-unpaid-bills/

 

• Developer Greg Kavanagh wants court to restrain sale of €2m house: The action relates to a property in Clonskeagh, Dublin https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/04/28/developer-greg-kavanagh-wants-court-to-restrain-sale-of-2m-house/

 

• June date set for O’Flynn appeal that may have repercussions for other insolvency cases: Case centres around a loan, whose other guarantor is former rugby player and coach Ronan O’Gara, that was used by a company which operated the Silly Goose pub in Cork https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41127154.html

 

• Kingspan ‘committed to Dublin listing’ as it plots London Stock Exchange exit: Insulation giant’s first quarter sales 4% ahead of last year https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/28/kingspan-committed-to-dublin-listing-as-it-plots-london-stock-exchange-exit/

 

• CRH ‘de facto’ an American company as it leaves Dublin for New York stock exchange, says CEO Albert Manifold https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/crh-de-facto-an-american-company-as-it-leaves-dublin-for-new-york-stock-exchange-says-ceo-albert-manifold/a2758962.html Also: CRH receives ‘strong’ shareholder support for US listing as revenues grow https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/crh-receives-strong-shareholder-support-for-us-listing-as-revenues-grow/a1413755783.html 

 

• Interiors studio gets playful with luscious lounge showcase: Kingston Lafferty Design, led by interior architect Róisín Lafferty, was one of six international design firms invited to curate a showroom for Salone del Mobile, Milan’s annual furniture fair https://www.businesspost.ie/property/irish-interiors-studio-gets-playful-with-luscious-lounge-showcase/

 

PROPTECH, ESG, MMC & CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION

 

• Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2023 Irish technology providers for the built environment – From smart design and planning right through to the smart property transaction, where does your Irish-led or Ireland-based proptech  or MMC business sit?  Pease take five minutes to add or update your details to our internationally-shared listing here: SIGN UP HERE: *https://prop-tech.ie/register/ * and email product or service details to hello@prop-tech.ie

 

• Proptech Ireland: Ireland’s CONSTRUCTION and REAL ESTATE ESG technologies resource hub. Confused about how and where to start on your ESG journey? Contact us 👉https://prop-tech.ie

 

• Construction firms must use off-site modular building methods under new plans: Officials hope new state contractual requirements will speed up delivery of public homes https://www.businesspost.ie/politics/construction-firms-must-use-off-site-modular-building-methods-under-new-plans/

 

• Key appointments announced for Construct Innovate Technology Centre  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/06248-key-appointments-announced-for-construct-innovate-technology-centre/

 

• Is modular housing finally about to go mainstream – or remain a niche player? https://constructionmanagement.co.uk/can-modular-go-mainstream/ 

 

• How offsite fabrication can relieve pressure on contractors: MMC solutions- such as offsite fabrication- could help the supply chain meet ever-increasing targets of efficiency and sustainability https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/mmc-news/how-offsite-fabrication-can-relieve-pressure-contractors/125213/

 

• Construction safety firm HammerTech expands into the UK https://www.businessleader.co.uk/construction-safety-firm-hammertech-expands-into-the-uk/

 

• OnlineApplication helps make B2B mortgages faster and easier: Dublin-based fintech is now expanding into the $17 trillion US mortgage market https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/karl-deeters-onlineapplication-helps-make-b2b-mortgages-faster-and-easier/

 

• PropTech News – new products and announcements for agents https://www.lettingagenttoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2023/4/proptech-news–new-products-and-announcements-for-agents

 

• The Consumer Pulse: PropTech Adoption – “Nearly half of respondents believe technology could replace agents in buying and selling properties.Of those who responded yes, 16% said it will take place in the near future and 32% said it will happen eventually…” https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/23/04/32044910/the-consumer-pulse-proptech-adoption

 

• Why a fast-growing climate tech startup raised its second Series B in 13 months https://techcrunch.com/2023/04/24/span-series-b2-fundraise/?guccounter=1

 

• Crowdfunder investigates rental start-up over ‘fraud’ https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/crowdfunder-investigates-rental-start-up-over-fraud-cl2lwbswz 

 

ENERGY, CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

• Ireland has finally released its 30-year climate plan – here’s what it says: The long-term climate strategy has been published today three years after an EU deadline. https://www.thejournal.ie/long-term-climate-strategy-6055747-Apr2023/?utm_source=shortlink

 

• Work on €1.6bn electricity interconnector between Ireland and France to begin ‘very, very shortly’: Cork could become ‘Saudi Arabia of Europe in respect of energy and power’, Fine Gael TD says https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/24/construction-work-on-16bn-electricity-interconnector-between-ireland-and-france-to-begin-very-very-shortly/

 

• Construction to start on first of 20 solar farms in Cork: Carrigaline site will be followed by solar farms at Inniscarra, Kanturk, Mallow, and Whitechurch https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41123749.html

 

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• Over 1,000 homes being bought by local authorities as part of tenant in situ scheme, Varadkar says: The government has set a target of 1,500 properties to be acquired under the tenant-in situ-scheme. https://www.thejournal.ie/apartment-building-figures-2023-6053703-Apr2023/

 

• Thursday’s AGM of I-RES REIT is shaping up to be an unusually interesting event. In recent weeks, one of the company’s larger shareholders has been trying to generate opposition to a number of resolutions to be put to the meeting https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/0430/1379773-irelands-largest-private-landlord-facing-agm-showdown/ Also: Ires Reit founder Capreit sought buyer for its stake in the trust last year: The deal worth €165m at the time fell apart when Russia invaded Ukraine https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/ires-reit-founder-capreit-sought-buyer-for-its-stake-in-the-trust-last-year/a1017330551.html

 

• Ires Reit is in exclusive talks to sell the Marker Residences, the crown jewel of its apartment empire, to Irish Life Investment Managers (ILIM), the Irish Independent understands. The deal, which could fetch €80m to €100m, appears to be part of an attempt to quiet a potential shareholder revolt led by dissident investor Vision Capital. https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/ires-reit-selling-100m-marker-apartments-to-fend-off-investor-revolt-42446808.html Also: Pressure mounts on Ires to sell up – but can it rely on Canadian founder? Toronto-based company went public on April 12th with its grievances https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/25/pressure-mounts-on-ires-to-sell-up-but-can-it-rely-on-canadian-founder/ And https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/ires-reit-shareholder-wants-chief-executive-margaret-sweeney-to-take-pay-cut-as-pressure-ramps-up-further/a1227178800.html 

 

• State support schemes like ‘rocket-fuel’ for first-time buyers who can shave up to €100,000 off borrowing costs https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/state-support-schemes-like-rocket-fuel-for-first-time-buyers-who-can-shave-up-to-100000-off-borrowing-costs-42445376.html

 

• ‘I love it’: Woman moves in to one of 95 new homes created on site vacant for 17 years: Tanya O’Connell, who moved in about five weeks ago, said the new home has made a “huge difference” to her and her daughter’s lives. https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41127526.html

 

• Is your home under-insured? Rapid increases in building costs mean homeowners could find themselves substantially out of pocket if their homes are damaged  https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2023/04/25/is-your-home-under-insured/

 

• Young people’s sex lives affected by skyrocketing rents, TD warns https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/young-peoples-sex-lives-affected-by-skyrocketing-rents-td-warns-1468136.html

 

• Apartment tenants in Dublin protest over management fees dispute https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/apartment-tenants-in-south-dublin-protest-over-management-fees-dispute-1466686.html

 

• ‘I can’t sell my home’ – clause leaves owner in limbo https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2023/0428/1379627-apartment-owner/

 

• Airbnb-style Dublin let still operating despite conviction: Apartment subject of only city conviction for unauthorised short-term rental now available for fortnight breaks https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/04/23/airbnb-style-dublin-let-still-operating-despite-conviction/

 

• I’m unhappy with the management company and agent of my multi-unit development. What can I do? Property Clinic: Although we are paying high service charges, they are not addressing issues of concern https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2023/04/26/im-unhappy-with-the-management-company-and-agent-of-my-multi-unit-development-what-can-i-do/

 

• Unfinished ‘eyesore’ is converted into 95 new homes for Cork: The apartment complex is the largest social housing project delivered by an approved housing body in Munster this year https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41126611.html

 

• Kildare person needs to save for over 7 years to get deposit for house in county – survey https://www.leinsterleader.ie/news/home/1157397/kildare-person-needs-to-save-for-over-7-years-to-get-deposit-for-house-in-county-survey.html

 

• See inside €1.75m west Wicklow home with stud farm potential https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/west-wicklow-news/see-inside-175m-west-wicklow-home-with-stud-farm-potential/a894062074.html

 

• Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal among most affordable counties for home buyers https://www.oceanfm.ie/2023/04/25/sligo-leitrim-and-donegal-among-most-affordable-counties-for-home-buyers/

 

• Pictures: See inside the €10m Meath farm with two period mansions and over 550ac: The historic European HQ of Devenish Nutrition at Dowth comes with five other houses and a range of stables and outhouseshttps://m.independent.ie/farming/farm-property/pictures-see-inside-the-10m-meath-farm-with-two-period-mansions-and-over-550ac/a135399197.html

 

• Ultimate Dingle  holiday retreat, which doubles as an investment https://www.irishrealestate.news/ultimate-irish-holiday-retreat-which-doubles-as-a-smart-investment/ (pictured above)

 

• Inside one of Cobh’s famous Deck of Cards houses up for sale at €325,000: The property is one in a 23-house terrace that may feature in more Instagram posts than any other houses in the county https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/property/inside-one-cobhs-famous-deck-26811357

 

• Farmland Cost Rising Twice As Fast As Prices For Residential https://businessplus.ie/news/farmland-cost/ Also: County Wexford property sells online for €29,000 per acre https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/enniscorthy-news/county-wexford-property-sells-online-for-29000-per-acre/42446265.html

 

• Fancy being able to fly right to the door of your new €10m farm? https://www.irishexaminer.com/farming/arid-41125207.html 

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Return on investment in Irish property declines for third quarter in a row: A new JLL commercial property report has shown that overall returns decreased by 3 per centhttps://www.businesspost.ie/article/return-on-investment-in-irish-property-declines-for-third-quarter-in-a-row/

 

• What’s next for Dublin’s shrinking office market? With vacancy rates set to hit 15% and rents falling, developers and the owners of older sites may be in trouble https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/whats-next-for-dublins-shrinking-office-market-k777cr9hf

 

• Dropbox confirms Dublin to be affected in global plan to cut 500 staff: The online company, which employs hundreds of staff at its European headquarters in Dublin, is letting 16pc of its workforce go. https://m.independent.ie/business/technology/dropbox-confirms-dublin-to-be-affected-in-global-plan-to-cut-500-staff/a920857418.html

 

• Retail sales grow in Dublin for eighth consecutive quarter: Data underlines post-pandemic economic recovery combined with soaring inflation rates https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/04/24/retail-sales-grow-in-dublin-for-eighth-consecutive-quarter/

 

• Shelbourne Hotel valuation jumps to €236m https://m.independent.ie/business/shelbourne-hotel-valuation-jumps-to-236m/a1230591699.html

 

• Adjoining Dublin 4 Georgian properties likely to spark lively interest: Nos 46-48 Pembroke Road also have planning in place for two mews properties to the rear, and are on the market for €3.5 million https://www.businesspost.ie/property/adjoining-dublin-4-georgian-properties-likely-to-spark-lively-interest/

 

• Handsome office block near Grand Canal Dock guiding €3.2m: Riverbank House is fully let to a single tenant at a rent of €245,000 per annum, with redevelopment potential, subject to planning permission https://www.businesspost.ie/property/handsome-office-block-near-grand-canal-dock-guiding-e3-2m/

 

• Harry Clarke windows in Bewley’s will not be touched while appeal considered, court hears https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/harry-clarke-windows-in-bewleys-will-not-be-touched-while-appeal-considered-court-hears-1466876.html

 

• Fintech firm Paysend to base its European headquarters out of Dublin: Paysend is optimistic about the future of its business in Dublin despite the global tech slowdown impacting a number of large firms and more than 2,000 employees according to CB figures https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-41127283.html

 

• Two new retailers added to line-up at The Crossings in Adamstown: McCabes Pharmacy and Kerrigans Craft Butchers join Tesco and Aldi at developer Quintain’s new urban village https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/04/26/two-new-retailers-added-to-line-up-at-the-crossings-in-adamstown/

 

• On-site services provider Sodexo Ireland will deliver facilities management and technical services in Dublin, Cork, Kerry and Westmeath as part of the €250 million (ex. VAT) Higher Education PPP project recently announced by Minister Simon Harris https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/business/sodexo-deliver-integrated-facilities-management-26773970.amp

 

• Damovo signs for new Dublin headquarter office in Sandyford: ICT services specialist agrees new long-term lease for penthouse space at Blackthorn Exchange https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/04/26/damovo-signs-for-new-dublin-headquarter-office-in-sandyford/

 

• Heartbreak as Dublin institution to close its doors after 106 years in business: Hardware store Edge & Sons has been a major part of Dublin’s north-inner city community for 106 years https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/heartbreak-dublin-institution-close-doors-26800431?utm_source=newsshowcase

 

• Heart of Cork’ city’s retail district adapts to meet changing demands: Despite challenges in occupancy levels and the continuing transformation of the retail sector, Patrick Street continues to thrive as a diverse and dynamic destination for shoppers https://www.businesspost.ie/property/heart-of-cork-citys-retail-district-adapts-to-meet-changing-demands/

 

• Corkonians have plenty of suggestions for Roches Stores building: Debenhams leased the building from 2006 until its closure in 2020. https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41127874.html

 

• Calls to turn Cobh garda HQ into a hotel and open a  new station in town https://www.echolive.ie/corkviews/arid-41121955.html

 

• Motel One is coming to Dublin- July 2023 https://www.irishrealestate.news/motel-one-is-coming-to-dublin/

 

• Popular Galway city shop goes up for sudden sale as ‘sought after’ spot put on market: The shop is located in a bustling and thriving part of Galway https://www.galwaybeo.ie/news/galway-news/popular-galway-city-shop-goes-8394388

 

• Limerick retailers want new plan to bring customers into centre: Other cities are recovering after the pandemic, but the Treaty city is finding it hard to attract big-name brands back https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/limerick-retailers-want-new-plan-to-bring-customers-into-centre/ 

 

• Popular Athlone pub up for sale https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2023/04/28/popular-athlone-pub-up-for-sale/

 

• CBRE plans to spend billions on mergers and acquisitions this year as companies in peril come up for sale https://www.bisnow.com/national/news/commercial-real-estate/another-quarter-of-declines-in-revenue-cash-flow-isnt-stopping-cbre-from-pursuing-billions-in-ma-deals-118710

 

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

 

• Average price tag on a first-time buyer home hits record high: The first-time buyer sector remains a challenging environment to get onto the ladder, Rightmove said.  https://m.independent.ie/world-news/average-price-tag-on-a-first-time-buyer-home-hits-record-high-42445476.html

 

• UK Buyers and sellers more positive about market despite mortgage pain – New research from the estate agency reveals the most upbeat sentiment among movers since February last year.  https://thenegotiator.co.uk/upsizers-and-downsizers-to-drive-market-bounce-back-savills-forecast/

 

• ‘Our rental system is rigged’: young novelists on their generation’s housing crisis: With a fiercely competitive rental market and huge price hikes, finding a secure place to live is increasingly difficult. Four writers share their stories of floor-to-ceiling mould, exploitative landlords, and trying to work in cramped house shares https://amp.theguardian.com/books/2023/apr/23/uk-rental-market-housing-crisis-writers-authors

 

• What you need to know about the UK Transforming Public Procurement checklist and upcoming Procurement Bill https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/planning-construction-news/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-transforming-public-procurement-checklist-and-upcoming-procurement-bill/125414/

 

• Overseas interest in Australian property market hits record levels  https://www.skynews.com.au/business/real-estate/overseas-interest-in-australian-property-market-hits-record-levels/video/13d18010518f385571e62f1c134c7917

 

FACEBOOK GROUP FOR IRISH PROPERTY BUYERS & INVESTORS

Crowd-sourcing answers topical property questions:    

As many of you might know, my annual property book The Irish Property Buyers’ Handbook (since 2011) was rebranded in 2018 and now appears as part of The Property Insider series, published by Oak Tree Press, the first three titles are now published and available here: https://www.amazon.com/Carol-Tallon/

From 2020, the publishers and I wanted to ensure the content remains topical and we are now doing this by crowd-sourcing home buyer and investor queries, with crowd-sourced and editorial team answers. 

Join the Facebook Group here to contribute: https://www.facebook.com/groups/IrishPropertyBuyers/