From 31 March 2026”, The Vacant Above the Shop Grant,funded under the Croí Cónaithe Towns Fund, is a national initiative designed to help bring long‑term vacant spaces in commercial buildings back into residential use. The scheme specifically targets unused areas located above shops or other commercial premises, supporting their refurbishment or conversion into new homes. This forms part of the Government’s wider strategy to tackle vacancy and dereliction while revitalising town, village, and city centres.
By encouraging people to live in the heart of urban areas, the scheme aims to create new housing, increase footfall, and enhance local vibrancy—all while making sustainable use of existing buildings.
The grant offers significant financial assistance to property owners who convert or refurbish vacant upper‑floor or ancillary commercial space into residential units. Funding levels are based on the number of homes being delivered:
- Up to €95,000 for the first residential unit created or refurbished
- An additional €20,000 for a second unit
- A further €20,000 where three or more units are developed
- Maximum grant: €135,000 per building
Owners may also apply for a €5,000 Expert Advice Grant to obtain professional guidance on design, building requirements, and cost estimates. It is advised to do this prior to making a full application for the Vacant Above the Shop Grant. (Link to Expert Advice Grant once set up)
To qualify, the building must:
- Have been built before 2008,
- Contain a commercial element that will remain in place,
- Have vacant above‑the‑shop or ancillary space unused for at least two years,
- Be located within a town, village, or city.
The resulting homes can be used as the owner’s Principal Private Residence (PPR) or made available as long‑term rental accommodation (with RTB‑registered tenancies). Short‑term letting (e.g., Airbnb) is not permitted.
The grant covers a wide range of eligible works including structural repairs, internal and external finishes, roof and façade works, services installation, fire safety upgrades, access improvements, and any specific works needed to safely convert commercial buildings into residential space.
Successful applicants must meet planning, building, and tax requirements, complete the works within 18 months, and use the home(s) as declared for 10 years.
Full details—including eligibility, conditions, and how to apply—are available in the documents below. It is important to read these documents to get the full details of the scheme in terms of what is covered, eligibility and process.
Vacant Above the Shop Grant Scheme Outline
Vacant Above the Shop Grant FAQs
Vacant Above the Shop Grant Application Form
Also, see link to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage website for further information https://www.gov.ie/en/department-of-housing-local-government-and-heritage/services/vacant-above-the-shop-grant/.
Applications can be submitted to derelictsites@monaghancoco.ie or by post to
Vacant Homes Officer, Town Regeneration Office, Monaghan County Council, Mtek 1 Building, Armagh Rd, Knockaconny, Monaghan, H18 HC96, 047 73779 / 047 61702
For any enquiries you may have in relation to the scheme, please contact the Monaghan County Council Vacant Homes Office via email: derelictsites@monaghancoco.ie