Sunday Property Round-Up 22nd February 2026 

Weekly Irish property market news and insights – for the industry, by the industry  

New home commencements rose 73% in January (2,046 units), bringing the rolling 12-month total to 17,275. Latest data shows Waterford led c commencement activity and timber-frame MMC continues to gain traction. 

Tender price growth slowed to 2.5% nationally in 2025, the lowest level in five years, with Dublin and Leinster flat in the second half.

With inflation easing, on paper, build conditions are stabilising. On the ground, the forward pipeline is less certain.  An internal Department of Housing report raises significant doubts about the viability of delivering 300,000 homes by 2031 and warns that completions could begin to decline from 2028 if falling planning approvals are not reversed. 

Only two of 31 councils rezoned land for housing despite Government pressure. Over six years, councillors attempted to zone 288 flood-prone sites, with 93 regulatory interventions to prevent inappropriate development. For homebuilders, strategic land activation remains inconsistent.

House price averages hide some telling trends; some homes increased in value by almost €100,000 yoy, although price growth is forecast to cool. 

Ires REIT returned to a €49.7 million profit, with average rents at €1,852 and occupancy at 99.5%. 

More than 2,000 homes have been bulk purchased since restrictions were introduced. 

The State has expanded Local Authority mortgage ceilings to €415,000 and increased the single income limit to €80,000, widening access in higher-priced markets.

Structural deficits remain pronounced: There is a shortfall of 39,000 purpose-built student bed spaces across Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway. 

Commercial property investment reached €2.4 billion in 2025, still 40 percent below the long-run average. 

37% of Ireland’s urban population lives in its largest city, compared with a global average of 16%, reflecting sustained regional imbalance.

POLICY ACTIVITY INTENSIFYING:

A national derelict property map is due ahead of a new tax. 

The Buy and Renew Scheme has been expanded. 

Galway’s development plan changes could unlock capacity for 7,500 homes. 

🇪🇺  EU HOUSING POLICY & RESEARCH:

▪️ Housing costs have risen over 60% on average across the EU since 2015 – in Ireland, that increase has been 102%

▪️ According to Eurostat, across the EU between 2010 and the second quarter of 2025 rents rose by about 28.8% – in Ireland, rent prices increased by about 117 % over the same period (2010–Q2 2025), substantially exceeding the EU average and placing Ireland among the highest rent increases in the EU

🆘 EMERGENCY RESPONSE: We repeat the call for government to take action under recommendation #1 of the Housing Commission’s 2024 report to:

❛❛Recognise and prioritise dealing with Ireland’s housing deficit [as distinct to ongoing/future demand] and address it through emergency action❜❜

Government policy is framed around meeting projected demand for 300,000+ homes by 2030: Housing Commission members have stated Ireland is already carrying a housing deficit in excess of 250,000 homes. Treating this deficit as future demand understates the scale of failure.

*Ireland requires a separate stream of emergency housing delivery to close the deficit. This must operate in parallel with existing programmes designed to meet future demand. Without a dual-track approach, regulatory tightening, market exit and affordability pressures will continue to reinforce one another.

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: 

• New home commencements rise 73 percent in January with 2,046 units started: Waterford leads activity as rolling 12 month total reaches 17,275 and timber frame MMC shows continued uptake https://breakingground.news/new-home-commencements-rise-73-percent-in-january-with-2046-units-started/ 

• Jobs market cools as youth unemployment rises and public sector hiring drives growth: Department of Finance report signals labour market normalisation with implications for housing demand https://ipropertyradio.com/jobs-market-cools-as-youth-unemployment-rises-and-public-sector-hiring-drives-growth/

• Easing inflation a boost for Government building plans: Surveyors say certainty will maximise value for taxpayers’ cash  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/17/easing-inflation-a-boost-for-government-building-plans/

• Government expands Buy and Renew Scheme to accelerate delivery of social homes: Contractors to directly acquire and refurbish derelict properties as eligibility tightens to target most challenging buildings https://ipropertyradio.com/government-expands-buy-and-renew-scheme-to-accelerate-delivery-of-social-homes/

• State-backed mortgages expanded as price ceilings rise to €415,000 and single income limit increases to €80,000: Changes to Local Authority loans aimed at widening access to home ownership in higher-priced markets https://ipropertyradio.com/state-backed-mortgages-expanded-as-price-ceilings-rise-to-e415000-and-single-income-limit-increases-to-e80000/

• Tender price growth slows to lowest level in five years as commercial construction stabilises – National annual increase of 2.5% in 2025 with Dublin and Leinster flat in second half https://breakingground.news/tender-price-growth-slows-to-lowest-level-in-five-years-as-commercial-construction-stabilises/

• Just two councils rezoned land for housing despite government threat: Coalition was updated on the progress made by all 31 councils https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/just-two-councils-rezoned-land-for-housing-despite-government-threat/a302620308.html

• Councillors tried to zone 288 flood-prone sites for development in past six years: Planning regulator intervened 93 times to stop zoning on sites in nine counties, with more interventions still under way  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/17/councillors-tried-to-zone-288-flood-prone-sites-for-development-in-past-six-years/

• Department of Housing to launch map of derelict properties: The proposal comes as the Government is due to introduce a derelict property tax in the years ahead https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-41796986.html

• In a major boost for housing stock, changes approved to the Galway’s Development Plan this week will unlock tracts of residentially zoned land across the county – with the potential for the construction of 7,500 housing units https://connachttribune.ie/council-lays-the-foundations-for-building-boom-698/

• Deficit of 39,000 student bed spaces in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway: Sherry FitzGerald says deficit down to limited development of purpose-built student accommodation in recent years https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/17/deficit-of-39000-student-bed-spaces-in-dublin-cork-limerick-and-galway/

• More than 2,000 homes bulk purchased by *INSTITUTIONAL FUNDS [*incorrect terminology removed] since pledge to end practice – Doherty: Minister for Housing insists ‘sustained, practical, effective action’ has been taken to restrict multiple unit sales https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2026/02/17/more-than-2000-homes-bulk-purchased-by-vulture-funds-since-pledge-to-end-practice-doherty/

• LANDLORD GROUP has accused the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) of portraying landlords in an unfairly negative light after it published two short videos on social media depicting fictional ‘dodgy landlord’ scenarios https://www.thejournal.ie/rtb-video-landlord-group-social-media-6960098-Feb2026/

• SAVILLS: €2.4bn invested in Irish commercial property in 2025 as volumes sit 40% below long-run average: In advance of Ireland pitching to international investors at MIPIM 2026, €796.6m transacted in Q4 with institutions accounting for 62% of acquisitions https://irishrealestate.news/e2-4bn-invested-in-irish-commercial-property-in-2025-as-volumes-sit-40-below-long-run-average/

• Supermac’s chief Pat McDonagh calls on High Court to refuse environmental group legal costs protection in plaza dispute: Friends of the Irish Environment wants to stop connection of Banner ­Plaza in Co Clare to nearby Clareabbey Wastewater Treatment Plant https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/supermacs-chief-pat-mcdonagh-calls-on-high-court-to-refuse-environmental-group-legal-costs-protection-in-plaza-dispute/a854075623.html

• Conor Skehan: Nightclub protest shows how Irish cities are dancing around the real issues: With town centres under pressure, measured management and balance is called for https://m.independent.ie/opinion/conor-skehan-nightclub-protest-shows-how-irish-cities-are-dancing-around-the-real-issues/a728382474.html#

• Sherry FitzGerald’s takeover of rival Knight Frank cleared by CCPC: Competition watchdog says deal will not ‘substantially lessen competition’ in the property market https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/18/sherry-fitzgeralds-takeover-of-rival-knight-frank-cleared-by-ccpc/

• Ires Reit returns to €49.7m profit as rents rise to €1,852 and occupancy holds at 99.5% – Asset disposals, margin expansion and stabilised valuations drive earnings rebound in 2025: Chief executive Eddie Byrne said Ireland has returned to the radar of long-term international investors, citing rental reforms and increased State investment as key factors supporting renewed capital interest in the residential market https://irishrealestate.news/ires-reit-returns-to-e49-7m-profit-as-rents-rise-to-e1852-and-occupancy-holds-at-99-5/

• Kennedy Wilson agrees to be acquired for $1.5bn by CEO-led consortium: US real estate group owns a number of Irish assets, including the Stillorgan Shopping Centre, and the Capital Dock apartments in Dublin https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/17/kennedy-wilson-agrees-to-be-acquired-for-15bn-by-ceo-led-consortium/

• The Supreme Court has ruled that the six Harry Clarke stained-glass windows in Bewley’s Café on Grafton Street in Dublin are the property of the building’s owner, Johnny Ronan’s company RGRE Grafton Limited https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0218/1559124-bewleys-cafe-windows-court/

• CARRIGALINE: Biggest town in Cork county urgently ‘needs a facelift’, council meeting hears  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/cork/news/biggest-town-in-cork-county-urgently-needs-a-facelift-council-meeting-hears/a65436700.html

• THERE has been an increase in the number of false complaints being made to the planning enforcement office in Mayo County Council https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/02/18/false-complaints-to-mayo-planning-enforcement-on-the-rise/#

• Waterford Airport moves closer to take-off as US oil billionaire Kelcy Warren gains FDI approval https://www.waterford-news.ie/news/waterford-airport-moves-closer-to-take-off-as-us-oil-billionaire-kelcy-warren-gains-fdi-approval_arid-88071.html

• Can Mayo’s county town afford to turn away €8.5m. investment in housing? https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/02/21/can-mayos-county-town-afford-to-turn-away-e8-5m-investment-in-housing/#

• Three people refused to accept tenancies offered to them by Mayo County Council in a renovated vacant home in the Ballina Municipal District in January https://www.westernpeople.ie/news/nineteen-council-units-were-offered-for-rent-in-ballina-in-january_arid-88339.html

• UN declares Earth has entered a period of ‘water bankruptcy’ that is likely impossible to reverse https://www.earth.com/news/un-declares-water-bankruptcy-era-as-major-rivers-and-aquifers-dry-up/

• More than 145 years after the first stone of the Sagrada Família was placed, back in 1882, the top part of tower finally put in place to take Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to its full height https://m.independent.ie/world-news/top-part-of-tower-finally-put-in-place-to-take-sagrada-familia-in-barcelona-to-its-full-height/a7367256.html#

• ‘Psychological torture’: Spanish tenants fight back against housing ‘harassment’: Court in Madrid will soon decide whether developers are using construction to force people out of their homes https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/feb/21/spanish-tenants-fight-back-against-housing-harassment-madrid

• Cork’s Birdsong man awarded by UCC for ‘outstanding success’ with wildlife work: It’s one of the highest honours the university can bestow upon a graduate https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/gallery/pics-corks-birdsong-man-awarded-33460352

• Ireland’s care home market ‘ripe for acquisitions’, says leading Belgian investor: Sector ‘doing much better here than in the rest of Europe’, according to CEO of Aedifica, Stefaan Gielens during a call with investors https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/irelands-care-home-market-ripe-for-acquisitions-says-leading-belgian-investor/a1631732525.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/

• European Commission’s decision to upgrade the border/northwest region from being classified as a ‘region in transition’ to a ‘more developed region’ for the next EU funding period of 2028-2034: Co-funding from Europe for projects will drop from 60% to 40% from 2028 https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/02/17/eu-funding-hammer-blow-set-to-hit-mayo-hard/

• EESC President Séamus Boland: ‘Housing is first and foremost a social issue… but it is no longer only that. It is an economic issue. A demographic issue. A competitiveness issue. This is why tackling the housing crisis is one of the key priorities of my mandate’: EESC continues to push for a solution to Europe’s housing crisis https://www.eesc.europa.eu/en/news-media/press-releases/eesc-continues-push-solution-europes-housing-crisis

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/ 

• Dublin’s soul for sale: The battle to save the city’s nightlife, culture and spaces — As high-end developments swallow Dublin central streets, residents and grassroots groups have to fight to preserve music venues, markets and liveable spaces https://www.thejournal.ie/readme/no-more-hotels-hoxton-hotel-dublin-6960225-Feb2026/

• ‘Spirit of the people makes it a special place’ – Liberties locals pushing for Unesco World Heritage status https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/dublin-news/spirit-of-the-people-makes-it-a-special-place-liberties-locals-pushing-for-unesco-world-heritage-status/a941379604.html

• Future Cork: The city centre enters a new golden age after decades of change: Cork has seen war and peace, boom and bust, and on more than one occasion the flat of the city has risen Phoenix-like from the ashes of total annihilation https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/commentanalysis/arid-41795903.html

• Anger in Limerick as Council told to ‘pull the finger out’ over delayed community centre https://m.independent.ie/regionals/limerick/news/anger-in-limerick-as-council-told-to-pull-the-finger-out-over-delayed-community-centre/a1880462681.html#

• Regeneration project creates 11 new homes in North Kilkenny https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/your-community/2020485/regeneration-project-creates-11-new-homes-in-north-kilkenny.html

• Arklow best Irish town for work-life balance – report https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0217/1558811-arklow-worklife-balance/

• Communities in Laois invited to public meeting about improving water quality https://m.independent.ie/regionals/laois/news/communities-in-laois-invited-to-public-meeting-about-improving-water-quality/a333719641.html#

• Community responds with 45 submissions over biomethane plant in Tipperary plans: Local group raises concerns over river impact traffic and future wastewater expansion https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/home/2020148/local-community-responds-with-45-submissions-regarding-biomethane-plant-in-tipperary-plans.html

• PICTURED: ‘A safe space to come and just be’: the radical, utopian return of Britain’s youth clubs: After a decade of austerity closed more than 1,000 centres, the government has promised £500m to renew youth services. We tour a glossy new venue in Preston – and a girls-only one in London https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2026/feb/19/a-safe-space-to-come-and-just-be-the-longed-for-radical-utopian-return-of-britains-youth-clubs

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/ 

• Cork Co. Council will pay 90% of costs to get small rural roads resurfaced: A way to fast-track repairs on less busy roads https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/cork-co-council-pay-90-33440946#

• Call to trial exemption for short-term lets on Galway’s offshore islands https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/call-to-trial-exemption-for-short-term-lets-on-galways-offshore-islands-214279

• URBAN CONCENTRATION MAPPED: The Share of Each Country That Lives in Its Largest City: While globally, just 16% of urban residents live in their country’s biggest city, in Ireland this figure soars to 37% — highlighting lack of RURAL PROOFING and decades of regionally discriminatory policies https://www.visualcapitalist.com/mapped-how-much-of-each-country-lives-in-its-biggest-city/

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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/

• CONSTRUCTION tender inflation slows to 2.5% in 2025 as Dublin prices flatline – Commercial build cost growth at five-year low with 1% rise in second half of 2025 https://irishrealestate.news/construction-tender-inflation-slows-to-2-5-in-2025-as -dublin-prices-flatline/

• MMC uptake continues steady rise with timber frame dominant in January commencements: 2,046 homes started in January as rolling 12 month total reaches 17,275 and offsite methods gain ground https://breakingground.news/mmc-uptake-continues-steady-rise-with-timber-frame-dominant-in-january-commencements/

• Government pushes for apartment living in desperate bid to deliver housing: Refusal to raise Help-to-Buy threshold and reduction of VAT rate on apartments signal shift in relationship with traditional three-bed semi-Ds https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/02/19/government-pushes-for-apartment-living-in-desperate-bid-to-deliver-housing/

• PICTURED: Council stalls plan for Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre revamp: Dublin City Council seeks more information on planned part-demolition and rebuild https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/18/council-stalls-plan-for-st-stephens-green-shopping-centre-revamp/

• Kennedy Wilson eyes up €1.3bn housing schemes: The company is reportedly in advanced talks with APG Asset Management, a Dutch pension investor, about participating in a joint venture to develop the Holy Cross College site in Drumcondra, the former Player Wills and Bailey Gibson sites off the South Circular Road, and the Cherrywood development in Dublin. The three sites have the capacity for thousands of homes  https://www.thetimes.com/world/ireland-world/article/kennedy-wilson-us-investor-apg-develop-housing-sites-dublin-7gd5j9ns3

• Planning for 200 homes on outskirts of Cork City rejected by An Coimisiún Pleanála: Among reasons for rejection was proposed development’s adverse impact on retail business in Blarney and Ballincollig https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41794520.html

• Development and growth in Cork town hindered by ‘pre-historic’ pumping station https://m.independent.ie/regionals/cork/news/development-and-growth-in-cork-town-hindered-by-pre-historic-pumping-station/a1608747998.html

• NEW DIVISIONAL Garda HQ in Macroom moves to construction phase: 4,338 sq m facility to anchor Cork County Division under €2.18bn Justice capital programme https://breakingground.news/new-divisional-garda-hq-in-macroom-moves-to-construction-phase/

• RENEWED application on a derelict 19th century former convent in Cork, made on behalf of a liquidated development company, has been welcomed, almost a decade on from when planning had originally been granted https://m.independent.ie/regionals/cork/news/derelict-19th-century-cork-convent-set-for-new-chapter-as-major-housing-plans-relaunched/a2041466833.html

• No housing commencement notices for Galway city so far this year https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/no-housing-commencement-notices-for-galway-city-so-far-this-year-214311

• Notorious Galway pub to be demolished to make way for student accommodation complex https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/notorious-galway-pub-to-be-demolished-to-make-way-for-student-accommodation-complex/a15981456.html#

• Permission sought for new housing development in Loughrea https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/permission-sought-for-new-housing-development-in-loughrea-214276

• CONSTRUCTION has commenced on the development of 13 apartments, along with a retail and community unit, at 33 and 34 Thomas Street in Limerick city https://www.limerickpost.ie/2026/02/16/e5-4m-construction-begins-on-13-limerick-city-apartments/

• Build of 180 new homes gets underway in County Limerick village: Limerick City and County Council, in partnership with the Land Development Agency, is now progressing the development in Mungret, with the Council providing expertise and resources to deliver the homes https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/property/2017316/build-of-180-new-homes-gets-underway-in-county-limerick-village.html

• Plans for 58-apartment development in Raheen:  DW Raheen Developments expressed its intention to apply to Limerick Council for the planning permission, which would be a modification to a previously approved application for 42 two-bed apartments https://www.limerickpost.ie/2026/02/21/plans-for-58-apartment-development-in-raheen/

• PREPARATIONS for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor have taken another step forward with planning permission granted for 10 self-catering accommodation lodges at the world-class resort https://www.limerickpost.ie/2026/02/19/planning-green-light-for-ryder-cup-lodges-at-adare-manor/#

• Green Light for 29 New Homes in Ayrfield Phase Two Development In Kilkenny: The development will include a mix of various sized homes https://kclr96fm.com/green-light-for-29-new-homes-in-ayrfield-phase-two-development-in-kilkenny/

• Two Kildare properties with possible development potential have come to the market, one near Kilcullen and the other in Barberstown https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/two-new-kildare-land-holdings-offer-choice-of-development-prospects/a1466144962.html#

• Permission granted for new housing estate in Tullow: 35 new units will be built on a currently vacant site on the N81. https://www.carlow-nationalist.ie/your-community/clonmore/permission-granted-for-new-housing-estate-in-tullow_arid-87943.html

• PLANNING refused for Longford’s Fox Brothers rapidly growing carpentry business, which had sought permission for 3 proposed industrial / storage / manufacturing units on a site in Saintjohnstown, Longford Road, Ballinalee https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/home/2021643/decision-made-on-ambitious-planning-application-by-longfords-fox-brothers.html

• Demolition works have commenced at the Percy French Hotel – a former landmark building in Ballyjamesduff – with the project set to provide a community, tourism and enterprise hub https://www.anglocelt.ie/2026/02/20/demolition-works-well-underway-at-percy-french-hotel/#

• Permission granted for sea front development of houses and apartments in Strandhill: Planning permission has been granted for 10 houses and two apartments on Strandhill’s Shore Road despite local objections. No https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligo/news/permission-granted-for-sea-front-development-of-houses-and-apartments-in-strandhill/a453632556.html

• Green light for new pharmacy and residential units in Leitrim town: Permission has been granted for a pharmacy and three apartments, including a rear extension, shopfront alterations and parking, subject to 17 planning conditions. https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/ballinamore/2018851/green-light-for-new-pharmacy-and-residential-units-in-leitrim-town.html

• North Leitrim quarry has been granted conditional planning permission for a 25-year expansion, including new buildings, soil importation, and site restoration, with restrictions on operating hours and environmental safeguards https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/local-news/2020857/leitrim-quarry-granted-planning-permission-for-25-year-expansion-and-facilities.html

• Two residents in Roscommon Town have lodged an appeal with An Coimisiún Pleanála in a bid to overturn planning approval for a 20-home development on the Golf Links Road https://www.roscommonherald.ie/news/appeal-lodged-to-overturn-go-ahead-for-housing-development-in-roscommon_arid-88193.html

• Offaly man has appealed Roscommon County Council’s decision to grant planning permission for a new Aldi store in Boyle https://m.independent.ie/regionals/roscommon/news/offaly-man-lodges-appeal-against-new-aldi-store-in-roscommon/a1288345450.html#

• COUNTY MAYO: Work is set to start to bring housing units at Churchfield Lawns in Knock back into use. The tender for the first 16 units – out of 35 – has been awarded https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/02/21/works-starting-to-bring-knock-homes-back-into-use/#

• Planning application to demolish Mayo derelict house for high-rise 26 apartment block refused https://m.independent.ie/regionals/mayo/news/planning-application-to-demolish-mayo-derelict-house-for-high-rise-26-apartment-block-refused/a1171404218.html#

• Works underway on €15m Shannon Airport makeover marking first step of major investment https://m.independent.ie/regionals/clare/news/works-underway-on-15m-shannon-airport-makeover-marking-first-step-of-major-investment/a135602680.html

• Construction begins on a major housing development in Nenagh https://tippfm.com/news/housing/construction-begins-on-a-major-housing-development-in-nenagh/

• Kerry developer applies to build four-storey apartment block on derelict site: The builder was previously granted permission for the development but it was quashed by order of the High Court https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerry/north-west-kerry-news/kerry-developer-applies-to-build-four-storey-apartment-block-on-derelict-site/a1355776060.html

• Permission granted for 134 homes on Ross Road, Killarney https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/permission-granted-for-134-homes-on-ross-road-killarney-472692

• Kerry couple granted permission to retain five houses built almost 20 years ago https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerry/north-west-kerry-news/kerry-couple-granted-permission-to-retain-five-houses-built-almost-20-years-ago/a1932301534.html

• Seán Dunne cross-examines former official who oversaw his bankruptcy estate: Celtic Tiger developer begins High Court challenge to validity of officials’ appointment https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/19/sean-dunne-cross-examines-former-official-who-oversaw-his-bankruptcy-estate/

• Judge refuses to appoint examiner over St Stephen’s Green office developer: Court heard two months of work needed to complete nine-storey office block https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/18/judge-refuses-to-appoint-examiner-over-st-stephens-green-office-developer/

• CRH ‘well placed’ to cash in on US data centre construction boom: Good growth in final three months of the year reported by Irish building materials giant which spent $4.1bn on 38 acquisitions in 2025  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/19/crh-revenue-rose-in-2025-as-demand-lifted-business/

• BAM’s UK construction arm has bounced back into the black after swinging from a £24m loss to a £27m profit in 2025 https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2026/02/19/bam-construction-uk-returns-to-profit/

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/

• Apprenticeships have changed, but people’s opinions have not: Nine out of 10 employers consider ‘serving your time’ as a valuable way to train and develop staff, notes State research https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2026/02/18/apprenticeships-have-changed-but-peoples-opinions-have-not-2/

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 

• Property prices predicted to cool after some homes rise by almost €100,000 in a year: In some places, up to 60pc of housing stock now comes from landlords exiting the sector https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/property-prices-predicted-to-cool-after-some-homes-rise-by-almost-100000-in-a-year/a1193504635.html#

• Cork council to encourage ‘co-living’ for like-minded single people after pilot project success Advantages of the scheme is that it gets more single people into one house, rather than having to provide them with single units, and the occupants are not socially isolated and can share bills Cork council to encourage ‘co-living’ for like-minded single people after pilot project success https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41796572.html

• Ballinasloe’s social housing stock received a major boost at the weekend as Taoiseach Micheál Martin officially opened two Galway County Council housing developments, marking the delivery of 74 new homes https://connachttribune.ie/taoiseach-opens-two-new-significant-developments-in-ballinasloe/

• Booking.com says short-term lets will need up to a year to become planning compliant: New short-term let regulations are due to kick in from May. https://www.thejournal.ie/booking-com-short-term-let-rules-6960649-Feb2026/

• New short-term letting rules could have ‘unintended consequences’ for tourism, committee hears https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/new-short-term-letting-rules-could-have-unintended-consequences-for-tourism-committee-hears/a1670602438.html#

• Killarney resident said her town has ‘lost its soul’ with people unwilling to speak out against a fixation on tourism and Airbnbs over fears of a backlash https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerry/south-kerry-news/airbnb-surge-erasing-killarneys-soul-as-residents-too-afraid-to-speak-out/a822075890.html

• According to new figures from the CSO, house prices in west and north Roscommon are some of the lowest in the country https://www.shannonside.ie/news/local-house-prices-among-lowest-in-the-country-283796

• Substantial Victorian fixer-upper in Dundalk goes on the market for €270,000 https://m.independent.ie/regionals/louth/dundalk-news/substantial-victorian-fixer-upper-in-dundalk-goes-on-the-market-for-270000/a1524875614.html

• “We risk losing working families!” Call for balance between social and affordable housing in Longford: Councillor Niall Gannon said affordable housing was urgently needed in Longford  https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/home/2017155/we-risk-losing-working-families-call-for-balance-between-social-and-affordable-housing-in-longford.html

• Concerns regarding air to water heating systems highlighted at Sligo Council meeting https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligo/news/concerns-regarding-air-to-water-heating-systems-highlighted-at-sligo-council-meeting/a461745677.html

• Stately home on 250 acres by Lough Derg for reduced price of €4.2m: Bellevue House being offered for sale alternatively with 200 acres for €3.6m https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/02/19/stately-home-on-250-acres-on-shores-of-lough-derg-for-reduced-price-of-42m/

• PICTURED: From WW1 military hospital to de Valera’s hideout to nuclear bunker – Inside the turbulent past of a €1.8m Kildare mansion https://m.independent.ie/life/home-garden/homes/from-ww1-military-hospital-to-de-valeras-hideout-to-nuclear-bunker-inside-the-turbulent-past-of-a-18m-kildare-mansion/a732320775.html#

• See inside fixer-upper Galway schoolhouse with planning permission for sale at €189k https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/see-inside-fixer-upper-galway-schoolhouse-with-planning-permission-for-sale-at-189k/a1264764948.html

• Tasty live-work blend at €510k landmark Kenmare property: Historic three-storey mixed-use building in Kenmare’s Square offers retail potential and private living space with roof terrace https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41796026.html

*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 

• OpenAI seeks new Dublin headquarters with space for over 400 workers: ChatGPT developer narrows search for new EMEA hub to two potential locations in city and docklands https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/02/18/openai-seeks-new-dublin-headquarters-with-space-for-over-400-workers/

• Dublin’s Mercantile Hotel signage branded ‘totally inappropriate’ by council: Dublin City Council said they would now be investigating the unapproved works to the protected building https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/dublin-news/dublins-mercantile-hotel-signage-branded-totally-inappropriate-by-council/a248909108.html

• The Hoxton ‘doesn’t want Yamamori to close’ and welcomes mediation offer by property owner: Trinity Hospitality, owner of the property leased by The Hoxton Hotel, is in a legal dispute with Yamamori Izakaya. https://www.thejournal.ie/hoxton-hotel-says-it-does-not-want-to-see-yamamori-izakaya-close-6963073-Feb2026/

• Apple to open new Dublin office with space for up to 300 staff: Announcement comes as tech giant officially opens new building in Cork https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/19/apple-to-open-dublin-office-with-space-for-up-to-300-staff/

• Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in Connemara has sought permission to upgrade: O’Flaherty Tower house, a protected structure located within the landscape of the property https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/five-star-galway-hotel-plans-to-repair-historic-tower-ruin-close-to-collapse/a1880406222.html#

• Journalism students uncover reality of retail in Limerick City: they analysed footfall data and spoke to local businesses to examine the sharp drop in shoppersand what it means for the future of the city centre https://www.live95fm.ie/news/live95-news/limerick-voice-launch-journalism-students-uncover-reality-of-retail-in-limerick-city/

• Mango confirm date and details for new store opening in Limerick: The unit has been largely out of use since Easter 2020, at the start of the Covid-19 lockdown when the British retailer collapsed into liquidation https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/business/2019811/mango-confirm-date-and-details-for-new-store-opening-in-limerick.html

• PICTURED: Heads are turning for pharmacy investment property in the heart of buzzing Charleville: Huge footfall and an attractive guide price of €1 million for high-yielding pharmacy investment property in heart of Charleville Shopping Centre https://www.irishexaminer.com/sponsored/arid-41794502.html 

• Kilkenny city premises set for major revamp: The plan makes provision for accommodation and more https://kclr96fm.com/kilkenny-city-premises-set-for-major-revamp/ 

• Armada Hotel in Co Clare invests €2.5m to expand next door: Irish hospitality group hoping investment in new facilities will lead to 20% rise in occupancy https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/16/armada-hotel-in-co-clare-invests-25m-to-expand-its-offering/

• Longstanding Tipperary family run business McLoughlin’s Hardware to close after 40 years – McLoughlin’s Hardware closes after 40 years, leaving a lasting mark on Nenagh community https://www.nenaghlive.ie/news/local-news/2019206/longstanding-tipperary-family-run-business-mcloughlins-hardware-to-close-after-40-years.html

• New owners of Royal Valentia Hotel says future developments will be mindful of its history https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/new-owners-of-royal-valentia-hotel-says-future-developments-will-be-mindful-of-its-history-472507

• How Lidl and Aldi’s Irish expansion has been slowed by rivals https://www.businesspost.ie/companies/how-lidl-and-aldis-irish-expansion-has-been-slowed-by-rivals/

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

•  Tommy Barker: Online bidding for a home in Ireland now feels like a gamble. AI’s digital revolution is making home-hunting more stressful than ever, as online bidding platforms and rapid changes impact buyers’ mental health. https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41794370.html 

• New UK property portal launches claiming to adopt a radically different proposition by “giving agents a choice”: nHabit has launched as London’s first AI-powered rental matchmaking platform https://propertyindustryeye.com/new-property-portal-launches-2/

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/ 

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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

Infrastructure approval timelines cut by up to 20 weeks under new guidelines

• 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/

• Harbour upgrade programme commits €27 million to coastal infrastructure– €6.4 million allocated to Ros An Mhíl as Howth and Castletownbere also secure over €5 million each

Harbour upgrade programme commits €27 million to coastal infrastructure

• 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/

• EirGrid to proceed to the construction phase of the north-south interconnector project in the Republic of Ireland “in the coming months” https://www.meathchronicle.ie/2026/02/20/construction-phase-of-interconnector-in-the-coming-months/#

• 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/

• Plans in Galway to remove nearly 300 hectares of trees to restore Connemara bog https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/plans-in-galway-to-remove-nearly-300-hectares-of-trees-to-restore-connemara-bog/a892320152.html#

• River Shannon at a crossroads: €10 billion water pipeline to Dublin or salmon restoration in Limerick? Abstraction plan risks repeating ecological mistakes of past claims Dr Anthony Leddin https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/environment/2019155/river-shannon-at-a-crossroads-10-billion-water-pipeline-to-dublin-or-salmon-restoration-in-limerick.html

• Mapped: The World’s Data Centers by Country (2026) https://www.visualcapitalist.com/mapped-countries-with-most-data-centers/

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

• PICTURED: The City of London Corporation has revealed a new skyline CGI showcasing what the Square Mile’s tall buildings cluster will look like in around six years’ time  https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2026/02/19/city-skyline-revealed-after-record-planning-approvals/

• The UK construction industry entered 2026 with a sharp decline in activity due to the impact of a sluggish economy and low private investor confidence, according to data intelligence provider Glenigan. https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/sections/data/construction-activity-fell-sharply-in-early-2026-glenigan-says-17-02-2026/

• 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/