Only four local authorities have paid out more money under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant than Clare County Council.
The Department of Housing has revealed almost €15 million has been awarded in this county for the purpose of turning a vacant building into a permanent residence.
Launched in July 2022, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant is a payment available to those looking to turn a vacant house or building into a permanent home or rental property.
Additionally, it can be used to convert a commercial or public-use building into a residential unit or units.
Since its inception, there have been 762 applications in Clare which is the seventh-highest figure nationwide.
Of these, 542 have been approved, the sixth-highest number nationally, while 42 have been rejected.
Additionally, 253 applications have been paid out which is more than in any other county bar four.
The total value of grants paid out stands at €14.7 million, with only Donegal, Cork County, Dublin City and Tipperary awarding higher sums.
The Kilrush Local Electoral Area accounts for 34% of grants approved while 20% were for projects in the Ennistymon area, 19% were in the Killaloe region, 16% were in Ennis or its surrounds and 11% were in the Shannon LEA.
