HOUSING and Local Government Minister Darragh O’Brien has authorised new planning regulations removing the need for planning permission for converting former pubs into residential units.
The new exemption is contained in an extension of 2018 Planning Regulations that allow a change of use of certain vacant commercial premises – including vacant areas above ground-floor premises – to residential use such as ‘above shop’ living.
Since 2018, 113 residential units have been provided in Limerick through 52 notifications of exempted developments. The new regulations extend the exemption to the end of 2025.
For the conversion of former pubs into a homes, the pub’s license must have lapsed and a limit of nine residential units can be provided under an exempted development.
Commenting on the new regulations, Minister O’Brien said that turning vacant properties into occupied homes is a major element of the Government’s ‘Housing for All’ strategy.
“Unfortunately towns and villages in Limerick have seen pubs close their doors for the last time in recent years, not least over the last two years. This new planning regulation will ease the planning burden for those who want to convert small and medium-sized pubs that are no longer viable and have ceased to operate, into residential housing for Limerick.
“The regulations will also continue to make it easier to get other forms of vacant commercial premises in Limerick, including vacant spaces over ground floor premises, back into use for residential purposes such as ‘over the shop’ living,” Minister O’Brien added.
Minister of State for Planning and Local Government Peter Burke said that since 2018, 113 homes have been provided from exempting the conversion of certain vacant commercial premises in Limerick.
“I believe there is great potential for even more vacant properties to be converted into residential units through these regulations. Increased awareness of these exemptions, including through the work of Limerick City and County Council, will help get more vacant properties back into use.
“This measure supports the Government’s other measures to tackle vacancy, including increased funding for full-time Vacant Homes Officers in Limerick City and County Council and other local authorities, and the launch of a Town Centre First policy, which will revitalise town centres and their buildings.”
