DONEGAL County Council has commenced work to tackle vacancy and dereliction in Ballybofey and Stranorlar Town Centre.
Findings from the most recent GeoDirectory Commercial Vacancy Report (Q4 2025) have identified BallybofeyStranorlar as having the second highest level of national commercial vacancy recorded.
In response, the Council’s Regeneration and Development Team has initiated a focused programme of work aimed at understanding the scale of the issue in order to take action and support the revitalisation of the town centre.
This work programme also aligns with key national policy priorities and initiatives, including the ‘Town Centres First’ Policy, ‘Housing for All’ and the ‘Property Activation Programme’.
The steps taken by Donegal County Council to date have involved surveying and identifying vacant and potentially derelict properties located in the town centre. The information gathered will enable the Council to build an accurate picture of vacancy levels including the condition of buildings, and thereafter allowing appropriate supports and interventions to be considered.
The Council is currently working to identify the owners of a number of properties in order to initiate engagement with owners. Property owners will be contacted to discuss the status of their buildings and to explore options available to them, in order to bring their properties back into productive use.
The Council recognises that property owners play a key role in the regeneration of town centres and will seek to work constructively with owners where possible to support the reuse and redevelopment of vacant and derelict properties. Where properties meet the definition of a ‘derelict site’, they may be considered for inclusion on the Derelict Sites Register in accordance with the provisions set out in the Derelict Sites Act 1990 (as amended).
In working with owners of vacant andor derelict properties in BallybofeyStranorlar, the Council will support individuals to re-use their buildings by providing information and guidance in respect of: The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant; The Repair and Lease Scheme and; The Conservation Advice Grant Scheme
The Council will continue to work proactively with property owners, local stakeholders, BASICC, the Town Team and the wider community as part of its ongoing commitment to the regeneration and sustainable development of the twin towns.
Cllr Martin Harley, Cathaoirleach of BallybofeyStranorlar Municipal District said tackling vacancy and dereliction is a “high priority” for the elected MD members.
“It will play an integral role in supporting a vibrant town centre and encouraging renewed economic, residential and community activity in Ballybofey & Stranorlar”.
He added that “with the Twin Towns bypass happening in the next few years, the regeneration of vacant buildings will strengthen the position of the towns”.
If you own a vacant andor derelict property in BallybofeyStranorlar town centre or elsewhere, you can find out about more by emailing [email protected]