Sunday Property Round-Up 15th February 2026
Weekly Irish property market news and insights – for the industry, by the industry
This week, the European Parliament’s Special Committee on the Housing Crisis adopted its report on affordable housing, following 1,456 amendments, 49 compromise texts and a 23–6–4 committee vote. The report recognises the scale and urgency of Europe’s housing crisis and includes amendments calling for rural planning changes. Further procedural steps remain before any final parliamentary position is confirmed. As Ireland approaches its EU Council Presidency, the direction of travel at EU level is nonetheless significant.
The latest EU positioning strengthens the case for returning to Recommendation No. 1 of the Housing Commission: clearly distinguishing between housing demand and housing deficit. Current Government policy is framed around meeting projected demand for more than 300,000 additional homes by 2030. However, members of the Commission have stated that Ireland is already carrying a deficit in excess of 250,000 homes due to prolonged under-delivery. Treating that deficit as future demand misstates the scale of the challenge. Without acknowledging that the system must both meet new demand and close a backlog of over a quarter of a million homes, regulatory tightening, market exit and affordability pressures will continue to compound supply failure. A parallel emergency delivery stream, operating alongside mainstream supply programmes, is now a policy requirement rather than a political preference.
In parallel, the sector’s responsibility extends beyond delivery targets to the conditions under which that delivery takes place. This week saw the launch of the all-Island Working at Height campaign by the Health and Safety Authority and HSENI, supported by the Construction Industry Federation and facilitated by the Walls team on site in Dublin. Eleven people died while undertaking construction-related activities last year, up from five the previous year, with most fatalities linked to falls from height, moving plant and equipment, or being struck by falling objects. The campaign is a direct response to those risks. At the same time, the HSA’s latest podcast features Marian Deasy discussing the #LiveForLorcan behavioural safety initiative, a reminder that safety culture is not procedural compliance but a daily leadership obligation. As output pressures intensify, maintaining standards on site is not ancillary to delivery; it is integral to it.
On the ground, delivery continues but at scale that falls short of need and urgency. Construction has commenced on a €120m, 230-unit apartment scheme in Limerick city, the largest residential development there in two decades, led by Tribeca Holdings. In Galway, Monami Construction has begun work on a Henry J Lyons-designed scheme. These are material schemes and welcome additions. They do not, in themselves, resolve structural under-supply.
It was also a challenging week for proptech and online bidding systems. An ESRI report examining how Ireland’s homebuying process shapes behaviour, rather than prices, found that open and online bidding structures can heighten stress and encourage buyers to exceed pre-stated budgets. Visible bidding histories and live competition may intensify scarcity signals. The research also points to significant knowledge gaps, with many buyers unclear on their rights and on what “sale agreed” means in legal terms. When this ambiguity is combined with protracted periods between sale agreed and contract signing, the transaction process itself becomes a source of risk. The findings raise difficult questions for digital platforms and suggest a stronger case for independent buyer representation within the Irish system. Supply remains the core constraint, but how we transact is actively shaping outcomes.
Elsewhere this week: eviction rates are being compared to historic peaks; the Dáil has passed legislation enabling market rent resets on vacant properties; construction activity remains below breakeven despite improved new orders; mortgage rates have eased but remain elevated by euro area standards; the Government has appointed a senior housing activation lead; and further reforms on short-term lets and defective block remediation are advancing.
Policy is moving. Activity is visible. But without structural clarity on deficit, delivery model, transaction reform and on-site safety culture, the system will continue to generate pressure faster than it resolves need.
As always, you can contact us on editor@ipropertyradio.com
PROPERTY DISTRICT PRESS OFFICE
Below are the local and international stories that might be of particular interest:
- ‘We’re seeing eviction rates not seen in Ireland since the 1850s’: ‘When eviction reaches this scale, it becomes a signal that the system itself is failing to provide basic housing security’ https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2026/0205/1556866-eviction-rates-ireland-history-great-famine/
- 80–70 Dáil vote passes Rental Bill as 60,000 new tenants warned of 20–30% rent reset risk: Legislation to allow market rent resets on vacant properties from 1 March now moves to Seanad https://irishrealestate.news/80-70-dail-vote-passes-rental-bill-as-60000-new-tenants-warned-of-20-30-rent-reset-risk/
- Construction Activity Contracts for Ninth Month Despite Strongest New Orders Since March: January PMI shows sector still below breakeven as housing and civil engineering lag, while confidence and hiring improve https://breakingground.news/construction-activity-contracts-for-ninth-month-despite-strongest-new-orders-since-march/
- Building economic resilience is not optional as Central Bank sets out 2026 priorities: Governor Gabriel Makhlouf warns Ireland must adapt to geopolitical shocks, trade fragmentation and climate transition
- Mortgage rates fall to 3.5% as ECB pause narrows gap with euro area: Central Bank data shows Irish rates still sixth highest in eurozone despite three-year low https://ipropertyradio.com/mortgage-rates-fall-to-3-5-as-ecb-pause-narrows-gap-with-euro-area/
- Too early to say whether measures to lure property investors back are working: Hooke and MacDonald boss says new forward sales of apartments are still curtailed by viability issues
- Greater co-ordination needed to tackle lack of affordable housing, SCSI president says: Addressing crisis essential to economic growth and social fairness, Gerard O’Toole tells 1,200 industry professionals at annual dinner https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/02/12/greater-co-ordination-needed-to-tackle-lack-of-affordable-housing-scsi-president-says/
- Pyrite Scheme Expanded To Include Homes With Early Signs Of Damage: Up to 200 additional households eligible as final application deadline set for November 2026 https://ipropertyradio.com/pyrite-scheme-expanded-to-include-homes-with-early-signs-of-damage/
- Over 3,000 applications have been made to defective housing construction block scheme: Oireachtas committee hears combined total paid to five designated local authorities to date is about €264m https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2026/02/10/over-3000-applications-have-been-made-to-defective-housing-construction-block-scheme/
- High Court ruling on arbitration in construction payments disputes puts builders at increased risk of insolvency unless the Oireachtas changes the law: Court’s ruling in a recent case could allow clients to stall payments to builders https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/10/court-ruling-could-threaten-builders-solvency/
- Construction industry body welcomes adjudication ruling on contracts: Experts had warned on the cash-flow impact of a recent High Court decision https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/13/construction-industry-body-welcomes-adjudication-ruling-on-contracts/
- ‘Housing tsar’: Government appoints Garret Doocey to senior housing activation role: New Deputy Secretary General tasked with accelerating housing supply and unlocking infrastructure-led delivery https://ipropertyradio.com/housing-tsar-government-appoints-garret-doocey-to-senior-housing-activation-role/
- Bad week for proptech and online bidding systems… but a potentially good week for buyers’ agency in Ireland? Carol Tallon spoke with claire byrne on Newstalk about the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) report, which examines how Ireland’s homebuying system is influencing buyer behaviour – beyond the very real and ongoing issue of low housing supply – Listen back https://youtu.be/BCT_hoVdGc0?si=Cb_j_XuybzgHjlOY
- Pat Kenny wins long-running planning battle over nursing home scheme: The fate of a local badger sett was the focus of much of the opposition from objectors to the scheme. https://www.thejournal.ie/pat-kenny-planning-battle-6953496-Feb2026/
- Open bidding pushes Irish buyers beyond budgets as ESRI study finds rising stress and poor market understanding – Behavioural research shows online and agent-led auctions drive higher bids, while eight in ten recent buyers face transactional stress https://ipropertyradio.com/open-bidding-pushes-irish-buyers-beyond-budgets-as-esri-study-finds-rising-stress-and-poor-market-understanding/
- Government to restrict short-term lets in towns over 20,000 as planning grace period considered: Operators without planning permission may be given up to two years to regularise status https://ipropertyradio.com/government-to-restrict-short-term-lets-in-towns-over-20000-as-planning-grace-period-considered/
- Tensions between ministers over short-term lets amid questions over ‘grace period’ for owners: Property owners may be given two years to become planning compliant or leave the market https://www.thejournal.ie/short-term-lets-laws-6952762-Feb2026/
- Emotional toll of proposed Galway City Ring Road to be explored in Galway Talks documentary | GalwayBayFM https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/emotional-toll-of-proposed-galway-city-ring-road-to-be-explored-in-galway-talks-documentary-213786
- Limerick businessman accused of making over 150 planning complaints against Supermac’s: Fast food company is being prosecuted by over illuminated 3D signage at the well-known Funworld premises in Limerick city https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/crime-and-courts/2010791/limerick-businessman-accused-of-making-over-150-planning-complaints-against-supermac-s.html
EU POLICY & RESEARCH IMPACTING HOUSING DELIVERY:
- 1,456 Amendments, 49 Compromises, 23–6–4 Vote: European Parliament Backs Affordable Housing Plan and Recognises Housing as a Social Emergency as Ireland approaches its EU Council Presidency. ALSO: Amendments called for rural planning changes https://caroltallon.com/1456-amendments-49-compromises-23-6-4-vote-european-parliament-backs-affordable-housing-plan-and-recognises-housing-as-a-social-emergency/
If you missed last week’s round-up, you can catch up here: https://ipropertyradio.com/sunday-property-round-up/
As always, you might let me know if I have missed out on any relevant property news by emailing carol@caroltallon.com
PLACEMAKING: https://placeengage.com
Open public consultations and community engagement, in association with the Public Consultation Institute of Ireland
- Beautiful – Sustainable – Together: Aligned with Aarhus Convention transparency and New European Bauhaus principles, PLACEengage empowers communities, planners, and developers across Ireland’s public and private sectors to collaborate more effectively — Learn more at www.PLACEengage.com PLACEengage: Better placemaking, together.
- Public Consultation Institute of Ireland: Grow College Green Public Realm Project: Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority consultation open until 11 March 2026 – Have Your Say Public Consultation Institute of Ireland https://publicconsultation.ie/grow-college-green-public-realm-project/
- EXPERT expert group set up by Mayor John Moran to focus on heritage and green spaces in Limerick has been working on new ideas to enhance the enjoyment of Limerick’s natural beauty https://www.limerickpost.ie/2026/02/11/mayors-working-group-have-big-blooming-plans-for-parks-and-green-spaces/
- Town Centre First Information event will take place at Ballymahon Library on Wednesday next https://www.shannonside.ie/news/public-information-events-on-redesign-plans-in-co-longford-to-be-held-next-week-283068
- Mayo County Council is to launch a new online portal for applications under the Croí Cónaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant Scheme. https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/02/09/mayo-county-council-to-launch-online-portal-for-vacant-homes-grant/#
Rural, Coastal & Islands
❓ Would you consider living on one of Ireland’s uninhabited islands? This is a serious question: ‘Island Futures, Taskscapes and Rural Policy – What Ireland’s Offshore Places Teach Us About Viability Beyond Resilience’ https://caroltallon.com/island-futures-taskscapes-and-rural-policy/
- Calls in rural Cork for the government to extend scheme to support one-off & self-build housing https://m.independent.ie/regionals/cork/news/calls-in-rural-cork-for-the-government-to-extend-scheme-to-support-one-off-and-self-build-housing/a2024621007.html
- 39ac Limerick property with derelict 18th-century mansion for €575,000: Spa House at Kilfinane is available in lots https://m.independent.ie/farming/farm-property/39ac-limerick-property-with-derelict-18th-century-mansion-for-575000/a929174088.html
- RURAL PLANNING: Clare County Council has unveiled plans to develop 12 private home building sites in a rural area of the County. https://m.independent.ie/regionals/clare/news/plans-unveiled-for-development-of-12-private-home-building-sites-in-rural-clare/a38079524.html#
CONSTRUCTION: https://breakingground.news
📍 Insights tool: You can get a more comprehensive view of weekly and/monthly planning activities at all stages through Property District’s Development Heat Map: https://propertydistrict.ie/development-heat-map/
- Ian Guider: Renewal or decline the only choice facing Stephen’s Green shopping centre https://www.businesspost.ie/analysis-opinion/ian-guider-renewal-or-decline-the-only-choice-facing-stephens-green-shopping-centre/
- Ready-to-go development opportunity with full planning permission for 49 apartments near The Park retail park in Dublin 18 has come to the market and agents Savills are guiding €3.5m https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/ballyogan-site-comes-with-permission-for-49-apartments/a396479438.html#
- Approval granted for more than 200 build-to-sell apartments along Dublin’s Grand Canal https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/dublin-news/approval-granted-for-more-than-200-build-to-sell-apartments-along-dublins-grand-canal/a623711423.html
- Glenveagh has secured planning permission for a luxury development of houses and apartments designed by celebrity architect Dermot Bannon in Foxrock, south Dublin – despite opposition from locals https://extra.ie/2026/02/12/news/dermot-bannon-planning-objections
- Green light for eight-storey 130-bed hotel on Store Street in Dublin city centre https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/dublin-news/green-light-for-eight-storey-130-bed-hotel-on-store-street-in-dublin-city-centre/a1755410639.html
- Locals mount opposition over plans for €356m apartment development in south Dublin: Developers are seeking permission for 562 apartments across seven blocks, marking a third attempt to build on the site following earlier legal challenges. https://www.thejournal.ie/local-opposition-apartments-milltown-dublin-6954209-Feb2026/
- O’Flynn Group and AIB pass 6,000 homes milestone as Cork pipeline advances: Ballinglanna completion brings decade-long funding partnership to new benchmark with further 550 homes set to start in Dunkettle https://breakingground.news/oflynn-group-and-aib-pass-6000-homes-milestone-as-cork-pipeline-advances/
- Work to begin on 124 new homes at Barry’s Field in Douglas after completion of €5m land deal: The scheme is expected to get underway in June on the last greenfield site in Douglas village https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/developmentconstruction/arid-41792042.html
- Plans for new housing development in Salthill await approval https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/plans-for-new-housing-development-in-salthill-await-approval/a920576966.html#
- Works have started on the first phase of the €400million Cleeves Riverside Quarter regeneration, marking a major milestone in the transformation of the historic 10-acre project in the heart of Limerick https://www.limerickpost.ie/2026/02/10/work-starts-on-e400million-cleeves-site/
- CONSTRUCTION has commenced on the largest residential development in Limerick city in 20 years: The €120m project is being developed by London-based Tribeca Holdings which is owned by Limerick man Aidan Brooks and will deliver 230 apartments. Galway contractor Monami Construction started construction work in the last week on this Henry J Lyons Architects designed development https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/2012479/construction-begins-on-120m-housing-development-in-limerick-city.html
- Plans for new housing development in Salthill await approval https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/plans-for-new-housing-development-in-salthill-await-approval/a920576966.html#
- Much-anticipated housing demonstration project to get underway in Limerick city https://www.live95fm.ie/news/live95-news/much-anticipated-housing-demonstration-project-to-get-underway-in-limerick-city/
- Details emerge of sites proposed for new Limerick hospital:?High-profile developer Ger O’Rourke seeking to develop extension on lands west of University Hospital Limerick in Dooradoyle https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/limerick-live/2013162/details-emerge-of-sites-proposed-for-new-limerick-hospital.html
- Housing boost for Kilkenny as over 70 new homes in the pipeline for Ferrybank: Kilkenny County Council is due to make a decision on 72 new homes for Ferrybank consisting of a mix of houses and apartments https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kilkenny/news/housing-boost-for-kilkenny-as-over-70-new-homes-in-the-pipeline-for-ferrybank/a2020688383.html#
- Council reveals reasons for refusing planning for 44 homes in Dundalk: Mix of houses and apartments were in proposed new development https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/louth-live/2013355/council-reveals-reasons-for-refusing-planning-for-44-homes-in-dundalk.html
- Planning granted for Laois housing development despite appeals from neighbouring estate: An Coimisiún Pleanála grant Abbeyleix development permission with 17 conditions https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/newsletter-laois-live/2010612/planning-granted-for-laois-housing-development-despite-appeals-from-neighbouring-estate.html
- Condron Concrete refused permission for further quarry development https://www.offalyindependent.ie/2026/02/13/condron-concrete-refused-permission-for-further-quarry-development/#
- Plans for Westmeath housing development put on ice as appeal is lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála https://m.independent.ie/regionals/westmeath/news/plans-for-westmeath-housing-development-put-on-ice-as-appeal-is-lodged-with-an-coimisiun-pleanala/a826864265.html#
- Contracts signed for the construction of 26 new houses in West Sligo: Work to start soon with completion due in mid-2027 https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligo/news/contracts-signed-for-the-construction-of-26-new-houses-in-west-sligo/a1315623693.html
- Mayo developer refused planning for ‘visually obtrusive’ Castlebar development: A proposal to develop a part five storey 26 unit apartment block in Castlebar was refused due to its excessive size and scale https://www.mayonews.ie/news/castlebar/2013017/mayo-developer-refused-planning-for-visually-obtrusive-castlebar-development.html
- Planning sought for 18 apartments in multi-block Letterkenny development: Plans submitted for ‘Phase 4’ of Meadow Hill development https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/donegal-live/2010506/planning-sought-for-18-apartments-in-multi-block-letterkenny-development.html
- Sod turned on the new all-weather track at Tipperary Racecourse redevelopment project: Major milestone reached as work begins on new all-weather facility, due for completion in 2027 https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/tipperary-live/2014970/huge-sod-turned-on-the-new-all-weather-track-at-tipperary-racecourse-redevelopment-project.html
- Plans lodged for eight new homes on disused Tipperary site https://m.independent.ie/regionals/tipperary/news/plans-lodged-for-eight-new-homes-on-disused-tipperary-site/a1882166434.html#
- Council gives go-ahead for 27 new houses in Ballybunion https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/council-gives-go-ahead-for-27-new-houses-in-ballybunion-471609
- Digital Infrastructure Ireland expands partner community for 2026: Ten new organisations join as sector body positions itself as a central voice in national digital infrastructure policy https://breakingground.news/digital-infrastructure-ireland-expands-partner-community-for-2026/
- Paddy McKillen ‘shocked’ to learn Prince Andrew’s adviser contacted Epstein over developer’s €8m Dubai investment: Belfast-born developer was unaware of ‘bizarre’ communication https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/paddy-mckillen-shocked-to-learn-prince-andrews-adviser-contacted-epstein-over-developers-8m-dubai-investment/a1081906390.html#
- Kingspan strikes deal on Century Homes facility: Contrary to reports suggesting Kingspan Century was to be sold outright, the Cavan-headquartered giant will step back from full ownership, and instead take a more passive, minority stake in the larger, combined business https://www.anglocelt.ie/2026/02/10/kingspan-strikes-deal-on-century-homes-facility/#
Breaking Ground News: Appointments & #ConstructionCareers
- BGN Construction Careers, your weekly newsletter from Breaking Ground news, keeps you updated on the latest job opportunities, while showcasing the very best employer brands and projects, across Ireland’s construction industry. Whether you are looking for your next role or planning your career path, stay connected with us for new openings, upskilling opportunities and industry news. Get all the latest job details straight to your inbox: Sign up https://breakingground.news/sign-up-form/
- Kirby Group Engineering has announced the recipients of its third-level bursary awards for this year as part of the company’s ongoing drive to promote diversity and inclusion in the engineering sector https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/02/11/mayo-student-selected-for-prestigious-third-level-engineering-bursary-award/#
- Mullooly: “Training the next generation of builders is a No-Brainer if we’re serious about housing” https://roscommonpeople.ie/mullooly-training-the-next-generation-of-builders-is-a-no-brainer-if-were-serious-about-housing/
PODCASTS:
HSA: Work at Height 2026 Podcast
⚠️ This week’s Health and Safety Authority podcast is one that every leader, contractor and site manager should take the time to hear.
Podcast host Joan Flynn, Senior Inspector in Construction Inspection and Policy at the HSA, speaks with Marian Deasy about #LiveForLorcan – a behavioural safety initiative developed by the Electric Skyline Limited team and inspired by the life of Lorcan Deasy.
The #LiveForLorcan campaign connects safety to something far more powerful – personal responsibility, shared accountability and the reality that every procedure exists for a human reason. Through education, storytelling and visible reminders on site, it reframes safety culture around one simple principle: everyone goes home safe.
This conversation lands at a critical moment.
11 people lost their lives while undertaking construction-related activities last year, up from 5
the previous year. Most of those deaths were linked to falls from height, moving plant and equipment, or being struck by falling objects.
As the Health and Safety Authority and the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland, supported by the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) launched their ‘Working at Height’ 2026 campaign – facilitated by the Walls Construction Limited team on site in Dublin earlier this week, the focus was clear: Working at height remains one of the most serious risks in our industry, and it is preventable.
Safety culture is built through leadership, safe behaviour, peer intervention and personal commitment.
Today, take time with your team. Share the campaign materials. Watch the videos. Listen to the stories of those living with life-changing injuries from falls. Listen to Marian Deasy speak about her son.
Procedures matter. Systems matter. But culture determines whether they are followed.
Every person who turns up on site deserves to return home safely, every day.
#LiveForLorcan
🎙️ https://open.spotify.com/episode/0BHMjysw5ZqiIVyd2uuJL2?si=508eca888a044e2f
📽️ Watch the interview in full: https://youtu.be/uOzbyvnFIic?si=gWq5vZzt4GomnlmE
You can view the full HSA: Working at Heights playlist at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5hAEpymn6vkMufB3bbgNrSiRg4e0AoOw
Further information about safety in construction: https://www.hsa.ie/your_industry/construction/
CIF Safety Campaign 2026 Podcast
“Pride is something that should be instilled from day one”
“No matter the task, or what you have done on site. It’s something that we struggled with for numerous years… but it is something that should be instilled in everyone on site”
In episode 1 of the Construction Industry Federation’s Construction Safety 2026 podcast, made with iProperty Radio, Safety, Health & Skills Executive, John Egan, joins Donal Cahalane, Director; Jerry Crowley, Site Manager; Eithne Hennessy, Safety Manager; and Gabriel Travers, Project Manager on site at Clonakilty Community Hospital.
🎙️ Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5FoLXg0SJ6jvpuXq6CjkMf?si=YlSnLSmTSKms3-XeBEK_aw
📹 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/daD6UysxqVk?si=phFreTkNTRhl7Lir
Produced by Katie Tallon MPRII, iProperty Radio for CIF
Watch the entire series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5hAEpymn6vnhCbgSqe6T8TJTfB9mvD6C&si=ity7U_ANvSSyc0bU
REAL ESTATE: www.irishrealestate.news
Residential
- Renters could be offered thousands of euro by landlords to leave their homes early as new reforms come into effect next month, agents have said. https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/landlords-could-offer-tenants-cash-to-move-out-before-new-rent-rules-kick-in/a970825633.html#
- Short-term letting operators face tighter planning regime as population threshold raised: Grace period and possible grandfathering to shape compliance pathway for investors https://irishrealestate.news/short-term-letting-operators-face-tighter-planning-regime-as-population-threshold-raised/
- Unclear how many short-term lets could be returned to residential use under crackdown: Department of Housing says ‘significant number’ of properties will be brought into long-term market https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2026/02/13/unclear-how-many-short-term-lets-could-be-returned-to-residential-use-under-crackdown/
- Revealed: Fewer than 150 long-term rentals available in towns that will be exempt from new short-term letting rules https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/revealed-fewer-than-150-long-term-rentals-available-in-towns-that-will-be-exempt-from-new-short-term-letting-rules/a717835454.html#
- Retirement communities are growing – but agencies warn they risk weaker rights for residents: It’s a growing sector and will only get bigger due to the housing crisis – but advocates believe it’s not clear what rights retirement community residents have https://www.thejournal.ie/retirement-village-contracts-6919439-Feb2026/
- UCC students commuting before dawn as housing crisis fuels daily parking battle: Sky-high rents and a lack of public student housing are forcing UCC students into long commutes and daily parking stress https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/spotlight/arid-41789420.html
- Maximum amount available under the Local Authority Home Loan scheme is too low in places like County Cork, leaving people approved for a loan priced out of the market https://m.independent.ie/regionals/cork/news/families-priced-out-of-cork-homes-despite-being-approved-for-local-authority-loans/a2146030446.html
- Ireland’s terraced homes: From Georgian elegance to modern appeal — The fascinating history and modern realities of terrace homes https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41792648.html
- The big changes to SEAI grants for heat pumps, windows, and doors: Kya deLongchamps is passionate about three stand-out improvements in the SEAI managed awards this Valentine’s Day. Here’s her second report on your need-to-know https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41791502.html
- New homes a short walk from Delgany village from €495,000: Apartments, duplexes and bungalows for sale in Co Wicklow with prices starting at €495,000 https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/02/12/new-homes-a-short-walk-from-delgany-village-from-495000/
- Monksland homes available under Affordable Purchase Scheme https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2026/02/09/monksland-homes-available-under-affordable-purchase-scheme/#
- More than 50 unfinished houses in Tipperary are to be demolished, Dáil hears: Work halted in 2007 when council said homes were not in compliance with planning permission https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2026/02/11/more-than-50-unfinished-houses-in-tipperary-are-to-be-demolished-dail-hears/
- New plans lodged to demolish former Longford creamery for 54 new houses: The site, located on Richmond Street, is the subject of an ambitious new proposal https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/local-news/2010550/new-plans-lodged-to-demolish-former-longford-creamery-for-54-new-houses.html
- How a professional home stager helps Irish properties sell faster for more: Eve Kelliher discovers what a typical day is like for Dara Carey https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41792642.html
- ‘Some of the rooms are 23 degrees with no heating on’: the joys of living in an energy efficient house: Just 70 passive houses and buildings have been certified in Ireland to date – something this Cork pioneer wants to change https://www.irishtimes.com/property/interiors/2026/02/15/some-of-the-rooms-are-23-degrees-with-no-heating-on-the-joys-of-living-in-an-energy-efficient-house/
- The price of love: you won’t buy a house together with vibes https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/02/11/the-price-of-love-dating-debt-and-the-awkward-talk-about-money/
- US couple to buy abandoned village in Spain with a church, school and bar for €310,000: In Spain, Portugal and Italy, the problem of rural ‘desertification’ has grown so dire it has become a political issue https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/02/11/the-latest-way-to-create-an-isolated-retreat-buy-a-whole-village/
*Searching for a new home or investment property in Ireland? Join the iProperty Radio FACEBOOK community of property buyers in Ireland 2026: https://www.facebook.com/groups/IrishPropertyBuyers/
iProperty Radio: Property of the week
Commercial
- Strong recovery in Dublin industrial and logistics in 2025, with take-up rising sharply and prime rents increasing, according to Savills Ireland’s Dublin Industrial and Logistics Review https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/shed-deals-activity-soared-by-81pc-in-2025/a251528967.html#
- Former Dublin 4 seminary has scope for luxury hotel or high-end homes at €12m guide: Owners of St Mary’s College secured planning permission in 2020 for development of 163-bedroom boutique hotel https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/02/11/former-dublin-4-seminary-has-scope-for-luxury-hotel-or-high-end-homes-at-12m-guide/
- Colm Wu generates €11.7m from sale of three Dublin properties https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/colm-wu-generates-117m-from-sale-of-three-dublin-properties/a1343592943.html#
- Soho House eyes up potential Dublin city centre location with major Irish developer https://www.businesspost.ie/companies/soho-house-eyes-up-potential-dublin-city-centre-location-with-major-irish-developer/
- Galway City Council to move to new headquarters by Christmas following three years of delays https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/galway-city-council-to-move-to-new-headquarters-by-christmas-following-three-years-of-delays/a1408520816.html#
- New scheme to tackle vacancy rates in Limerick https://www.limerickpost.ie/2026/02/10/new-scheme-to-tackle-vacancy-rates-in-limerick/
- Boots to open second store in Athlone https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2026/02/11/boots-to-open-second-store-in-athlone/#
PODCAST: The Property Roundup on iPropertyRadio.com
🎙️ Block has officially opened its new European headquarters in Dublin, with One Park Place now serving as the company’s base for growth across Ireland, the UK and Europe.
On the latest Property Round-Up podcast on iProperty Radio, Carol Tallon spoke with John O’Beirne, CEO of Square International at Block, and Mateo Miranda, Global Head of Real Estate at Block, about why now is th right time, how workplace needs have shifted post-pandemic, and what this move signals for Dublin’s fintech and commercial property landscape.
The conversation explored Block’s decade-long presence in Ireland, its expanding workforce, and the thinking behind creating a headquarters designed for collaboration, product engagement and policy dialogue – not just desks.
With close to 300 employees now based in Ireland and further growth planned, the move is another strong vote of confidence in Dublin as a European fintech hub, particularly for high-quality, sustainable office space in the CBD.
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3jE9pbamvlW1AVsyCnFCd9?si=egJ4GRL-SoCmCUCwh6QgsA
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zBCUJf73pz4?si=HkqcQWo4mdr9dP_g
PROPTECH, CONSTRUCTION TECH & SMART CITIES: https://prop-tech.ie/
Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2026 Irish technology providers for the built environment – sign up here: https://prop-tech.ie/register/ and email product or service details to hello@prop-tech.ie
- Proptech Ireland: Ireland’s CONSTRUCTION and REAL ESTATE ESG technologies resource hub. Confused about how and where to start on your ESG journey? Contact us 👉https://prop-tech.ie
- ESRI: Behavioural Evidence, Digital Bidding and Trust in Ireland’s Housing Market – Participants in open bidding environments, whether mediated by estate agents or digital platforms, bid significantly more than those in sealed bid scenarios https://prop-tech.ie/behavioural-evidence-digital-bidding-and-trust-in-irelands-housing-market/
- Dublin-based property management AI start-up named Marc has raised $1m from angel investors in a pre-seed funding round. https://www.siliconrepublic.com/start-ups/irish-ai-start-up-marc-raises-1m-from-angels
- Hacked by your fridge, TV and light bulb: internet safety really does begin at home: So-called smart home devices are helpful, but can leave us wide open to cyber attack https://www.irishtimes.com/technology/2026/02/12/hacked-by-your-fridge-tv-and-light-bulb-internet-safety-really-does-begin-at-home/
- Irish Venture Capital Association names new general manager: The IVCA unveils Aideen McClenaghan as its new manager as Ciara Burrowes retires after 20 years in the role https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-41793260.html
PODCAST: The Proptech Hot Seat on iPropertyRadio.com
All previous episodes of the Proptech Hot Seat can be found at https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5hAEpymn6vnSmFt4WXloS0IQNfUkdw2G&si=qeT3RSVaXBPX3Sxd
Proptech Hot seat is sponsored by Proptech Ireland, the hub for innovators, investors and industry leaders https://prop-tech.ie/
Produced by Katie Tallon, with Hear Me Roar Media on sound https://hearmeroarmedia.com
All Proptech Hot Seat episodes – https://ipropertyradio.com/proptech-hot-seat/
INFRASTRUCTURE, ENERGY, ENVIRONMENT & BIODIVERSITY
- INFRASTRUCTURE approval timelines cut by up to 20 weeks under new guidelines: Major projects threshold raised to €500m in transport, water and energy sectors
- Minister appoints Ultan Courtney as new chair of Iarnród Éireann: Appointment made on interim basis as recruitment process gets under way https://breakingground.news/minister-appoints-ultan-courtney-as-new-chair-of-iarnrod-eireann/
- An offshore sea defence consisting of enormous Y-shaped structures will be used for the first time in Ireland to protect an area of north Dublin coastline where houses are in danger of falling into the sea. https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2026/02/09/new-form-of-sea-defence-set-to-save-dozens-of-family-homes-on-dublin-coast/
- Cork village’s waste-water capacity to increase tenfold with new €13.4m treatment plant https://m.independent.ie/regionals/cork/news/cork-villages-waste-water-capacity-to-increase-tenfold-with-new-134m-treatment-plant/a1637766635.html
- Enabling works are due to begin in the coming weeks to prepare for the construction of the new Merlin Park Wastewater Pumping Station upgrade on Galway’s Dublin Road, which will support the development of essential new homes https://www.midwestradio.ie/news/works-begin-on-merlin-park-tank-to-boost-galways-growth-potential/
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
- Shared meals and open gates: inside the UK’s co-housing revolution — In Cambridge, there’s a big waiting list for its first communal development. Could it solve the housing crisis or is it just a middle-class utopia? https://www.thetimes.com/life-style/property-home/article/uk-cohousing-what-is-demand-n9sgfh88k
- Britain’s building standards are now so bad, even the super-rich are facing housing misery | Residents of the UK’s most expensive flats have won a court case over defective pipework. If their homes are shoddily built, what hope do the rest of us have? https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/feb/11/uk-housing-building-standards-one-hyde-park
- Apartments Billionaire Passes Control Of Real Estate Empire To His Sons: Mitch Morgan started buying apartment buildings in 1985 and built it into Morgan Properties, one of America’s largest apartment owners. Now he’s passing the mantle to his two sons. https://www.forbes.com/sites/giacomotognini/2026/02/11/apartments-billionaire-passes-control-of-real-estate-empire-to-his-sons/
