Cork County Council to Host Property Activation and Town Regeneration Roadshow Clinics

Cork County Council is hosting a series of drop-in roadshow clinics throughout the month of May, providing practical advice and support to those interested in bringing vacant and under-utilised properties back into productive use.

The Property Activation and Town Regeneration Roadshow is designed to engage directly with property owners, business owners, builders and technical professionals who have an interest in reusing and revitalising surplus buildings. This includes spaces over shops, behind commercial premises, or entire vacant or under-used properties in towns and villages across the county.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley, encouraged people to visit their nearest event, saying, “The roadshow will offer an opportunity for people to meet with experts from across Cork County Council working to support property activation and regeneration. Representatives from the Council’s Town Regeneration Office, Local Enterprise Offices, Planning, Housing, and Fire and Building Control will be available to provide guidance and answer queries. Anyone who is considering putting their property to better use should visit their local event to learn more about the opportunities and supports available.”

The events are suited to property owners, auctioneers and valuers, small builders and developers, technical professionals involved in renovation and regeneration (including planners, architects and engineers), Chambers of Commerce and business representative groups.

A key focus of the roadshows will be to showcase the wide range of supports available to assist in bringing vacant properties back into use. Information and guidance will be provided on:

• The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme (Croí Cónaithe)

• The new Vacant Over the Shop Grant Scheme

• The Buy and Renew Scheme

• The Repair and Lease Scheme

• Conservation guidance for protected structures and historic buildings

• Planning requirements and advice

• Fire and Building Control Requirements

In addition to scheme-specific information, attendees can seek advice on general queries relating to the reuse of vacant and under-utilised town centre properties.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murell added, “Cork County Council has been actively engaging with property owners to tackle vacancy and dereliction, including previous drop-in clinics which attracted strong public interest and demand for information on available supports. This upcoming roadshow builds on that work, aiming to further support town centre regeneration and enhance the vitality of communities across the county.” 

The roadshow will visit Cobh, Youghal, Macroom, Skibbereen, Mitchelstown, Bantry, Carrigaline, Mallow, Bandon and Charleville this month. For further information, visit the Cork County Council’s website at www.corkcoco.ie.

ENDS

Editors Note:

Roadshow Schedule: