THERE was a drop in the number of vacant social homes brought back into use in Donegal last year, according to new figures from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
In 2023 a total of 73 units were brought back into use, down from 78 in 2022 and down from 84 in 2021.
Last year funding of €897,244 was allocated to bring vacant social houses back into use in the county.
This is an increase from €858,000 allocated in 2022.
The figures show that between 2014 and 2023 1,074 vacant units were brought back into use in Donegal with over €11m allocated over those years.
Nationally almost 2,500 vacant social homes were returned to active use in 2023.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, published the figures this week.
Minister O’Brien said: “Refurbishment and the return to use of vacant properties helps to reduce pressure on existing housing stock, increase supply, and ultimately, provide much needed homes for people.
“Apart from addressing the need for social housing, the refurbishment of these unoccupied social homes also has a positive impact on communities. It prevents the decline and abandonment of vacant properties, which, in some instances, can lead to antisocial behaviour.
“I commend local authorities’ for working with us to bring these homes back into active use in 2023. Their efforts, will make a real difference in the lives of over 2,400 households. All local authorities are encouraged to continue to be as proactive as possible in the return of all vacant properties to use through the use of the Voids Funding Programme as well as other programmes such as the Buy & Renew and Repair & Lease Schemes.
“Speed in tackling vacant social housing is also critical to regeneration and improving the vitality and vibrancy of communities in towns and cities across the country. Through this Housing for All action we have now shifted to a position of planned maintenance of social housing stock to ensure the fastest possible turnaround and re-let times for social housing stock.”
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)