Less than half of applications for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant in Clare have been approved.
Figures released by Clare County Council reveal that since the grant was introduced in September of last year, fewer than 15 applications in this county have been given the green light.
The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant came on stream to assist those turning a vacant house or building into a permanent home or a rental property.
A grant of up to €50,000 is available to cover the costs of works but if refurbishment costs exceed that amount, a top-up of €20,000 is available.
Since the grant came into being, 268 applications have been received by the local authority in Clare.
Of these, 74% were for a private residence while the remaining 26% were for a rental property.
When the grant was first announced, it was available exclusively to those living in rural areas but in October 2022 this was extended to towns and villages.
In Clare, 58% of applications so far have been for rural dwellings.
Clare County Council has confirmed that of the applications received, 128, or 48%, have been granted approval.
10% have been withdrawn, 4% have been rejected while just one applicant has had their grant paid out and grant funding has been withdrawn for two applications.
The local authority has noted a number of challenges associated with the process such as the time to complete works having been reduced by central government from 18 months to 13 months and the insufficient standard of reports stating properties are derelict.
It’s also been flagged that a number of applicants have raised concerns over cash flow as the grant is only paid out when works are completed.
