Planning exemptions on commercial properties for 52 new homes in Laois

Laois County Council has been notified of planning exemptions to convert commercial properties into 52 new homes in recent years. 

Details of the planning exemptions between the years 2018 and 2024 were published by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne. 

During the six year period, Laois County Council received 29 notifications under planning exemptions, paving the way for the potential delivery of 52 new homes.

Planning exemptions introduced in 2018, removed the requirement for planning permission for the conversation of certain types of commercial properties into residential units. 

Commenting on the figures, Minister Browne said: “Planning exemptions play a vital role in unlocking the potential of vacant commercial buildings across the country and in Laois making it much more straightforward to convert them into much needed homes. 

“I feel very strongly about buildings lying often vacant in the middle of a housing crisis, and to be honest it is not acceptable if a conversion is possible. It is imperative that we convert suitable properties into homes and give people the opportunity to do that,” said Minister Browne. 

He is promoting the use of properties and said: “We want our towns and cities to be living and working areas. We recognise the face of our towns is always changing, and we have to adapt to that and rise to the need right now of people for homes. 

“Transforming premises such as former pubs is a practical community-focused solution which as well as streamlining the planning process makes efficient use of existing infrastructure and services.

“This measure not only boosts the supply of homes, but also our Town Centre First Policy which is breathing new life into our villages, towns and cities by supporting regeneration and more vibrant, sustainable communities across the country.”

Nationally, properties with a previous commercial use showing the highest potential in 2024 include former shops (31% of notifications received), followed by offices (23%) and public houses (14%), and services (13% of notifications received).

In addition, Minister Browne said, The Bringing Back Homes Manual for the Reuse of Existing Buildings 2024 supports and facilitates the reuse of vacant and derelict buildings for residential use through guidance on the schemes available and updates to building regulations. 

Nationally, local authorities have received 1,457 notifications to convert vacant commercial properties into new homes. These notifications have the potential to create 3,429 new homes throughout the country.