Cork County Council Launches Survey to Determine Demand for Affordable Housing
Jun 10, 2026
Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea is encouraging people across Cork who are seeking to purchase their first home to take part in Cork County Council’s new Affordable Housing Survey, which aims to help shape the future delivery of affordable homes across the county.
The online survey has been launched by Cork County Council to assess the level of demand for affordable housing and to help inform the planning, design, location, and eligibility requirements of future affordable housing developments.
Encouraging participation, Deputy O’Shea said, “Access to affordable home ownership remains one of the most important issues facing individuals and families across Cork. This survey is an important opportunity for people to have their voices heard and to help shape future affordable housing developments in the areas where they are most needed.”
The survey is aimed at first-time buyers and others who believe they may be eligible to purchase an affordable home under existing Government schemes. Information gathered will assist Cork County Council in identifying housing demand, preferred locations, household sizes, and other factors that will help guide future investment decisions.
Deputy O’Shea said the survey forms an important part of ongoing efforts to increase home ownership opportunities for people on low and moderate incomes.
“The Government is making significant investments in affordable housing through the Delivering Homes, Building Communities plan, and Cork County Council is actively progressing a number of affordable purchase schemes. Ensuring these developments are delivered in the right locations and meet the needs of local people is essential.”
The Cork North West TD noted that the survey seeks information on matters such as household composition, income levels, and accessibility requirements, which will help provide a clearer picture of housing need across the county.
“The more people who participate, the more accurate the information available to planners and housing officials will be. That in turn will help ensure future affordable housing schemes reflect the real needs of communities throughout Cork.”
Deputy O’Shea also highlighted that the Affordable Purchase Scheme is available not only to eligible first-time buyers but also to Fresh Start applicants who may have previously owned a home but no longer retain a financial interest due to circumstances such as separation, divorce, insolvency, or bankruptcy.
“There are many people who may not realise they could qualify for affordable housing supports. I would encourage anyone who believes they may be eligible to take a few minutes to complete the survey.”
Concluding, Deputy O’Shea said, “Home ownership should be an achievable goal for working individuals and families. This survey will play an important role in helping Cork County Council understand demand and deliver the affordable housing developments that communities need. I would strongly encourage people across Cork North West and the wider county to take part before the survey closes.”
