Sunday Property Round-Up 24th May 2026 

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

It was a week of emotive language around housing: “highest quarterly rent hikes for quarter of a century” and the “greatest number of evictions since the famine”. 

Unfortunately, the data confirms this to be accurate.

This undoubtedly supported the rise of a right-leaning candidate in the Galway West by-election. While Social Democrats’ Daniel Ennis took the Dublin Central seat on the 9th count, at the time of publication, we are pending the 5th count from Galway where left-leaning transfers will now decide between the current Leader of Seanad Eireann and a man who believes that “the inn is full”.

LET’S FOCUS ON THE DATA: 

• 4.4% – Rent hike: the largest quarterly increase recorded since the series began in 2002 
• €2,176 – Cost of average two-bed apartment
• 11,021  – Homes commenced in Q1 (activity rises 176%)
• 78,658 –  permitted homes in Dublin’s housing pipeline 
•  202 – active residential development sites across Dublin
• 24,246 – apartments currently under construction in Dublin 
• 2,141 – Q1 homes delivered through 19 completed schemes
• 46,722 – permitted homes uncommenced (41,114 are apartments)
• 120 – Derelict sites identified across Dublin
• 2,876 – home impacted by JRs
• €198m – Development land deals in Q1
• 28% lower than January 2020 – advertised housing stock, according to Sherry FitzGerald
• 3 Minutes – Great research by Laura Lynott in the Independent shows that the race for in-demand ‘Affordable Homes’ starts in as little as three minutes
•  44%  – Young people in Gaeltacht want to build their own homes on their own land
• 90% – Dublin’s data centres located in economically deprived communities
• €6,500 – Cash Irish homeowners in SE Spain might have to pay to get squatters out
• €5.6bn – Lifetime return to the State: NAMA winds down after generating €48.5bn and delivering 44,500 homes

The new government data released this week is directly relevant to developers and their pre-planning and design teams. Property District’s Development Heat Map (https://propertydistrict.ie/development-heat-map/) brings this together with existing layers covering zoning, water, power, flood risk, demographics etc in a single interactive view.

A briefing session will be held for developers and their pre-planning and design teams on how to navigate interactive maps, understand these data layers, and action them in site assessment and feasibility work. Register your interest with carol@propertydistrict.ie – initial priority for teams with no ArcGIS resource.

Finally, the UK industry has had a similar issue with recruitment of apprentices as seen here in Ireland, and has taken similar initiatives, however construction apprentice dropout rate there is now so severe, it requires government action — perhaps this is something Ireland needs to get out ahead of..?

📧 All stories are covered in full within this week’s Sunday Property Round-Up on iProperty Radio, powered by Property District – now the largest weekly newsletter BY and FOR Ireland’s real estate and construction industry. If it’s not in your inbox yet, email carol@caroltallon.com to receive a copy.

PROPERTY DISTRICT PRESS OFFICE 

Below are the local and international stories that might be of particular interest: 

• NAMA winds down after generating €48.5bn and delivering 44,500 homes: Final annual report confirms €5.6bn lifetime return to the State as legislation begins process to dissolve the agency established during the financial crisis

NAMA winds down after generating €48.5bn and delivering 44,500 homes

• 11,021 Homes Commenced in First Four Months of 2026 as Activity Rises 176% – Scheme housing accounted for 56% of April commencements while Dublin represented almost a quarter of all new starts nationwide https://breakingground.news/11021-homes-commenced-in-first-four-months-of-2026-as-activity-rises-176/

• Development land deals hit €198m in first quarter of 2026: It is up 5pc on the previous year and figure represents highest first quarter since 2019  https://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/development-land-deals-hit-198m-in-first-quarter-of-2026/a/152395717.html

• Race for in-demand ‘Affordable Homes’ starts in as little as three minutes, say country’s biggest local authorities: Data compiled by the ‘Irish Independent’ shows the rapid timeline some would-be affordable home-buyers get their applications in by – and the type of careers some have in hyper-competitive housing market https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/race-for-in-demand-affordable-homes-starts-in-as-little-as-three-minutes-say-countrys-biggest-local-authorities/a1022256008.html 

• Home builds this year will be ‘in line or higher’ than 2025, Sherry FitzGerald says: Advertised stock at the start of the year was 28% lower than January 2020, new data from estate agent shows https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/05/18/home-builds-this-year-will-be-in-line-or-higher-than-2025-sherry-fitzgerald-says/

• The Irish Times view on judicial reviews: clear that reform was needed — The argument that the wider public interest justifies putting some limits on the ability of people to object to major projects is a strong one https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/editorials/2026/05/17/the-irish-times-view-on-judicial-reviews-clear-that-reform-was-needed/

• ‘State agencies hindering country’s housing plans’ Former minister, Simon Coveney, said State bodies should not be making appeals to An Coimisiún Pleanála, which can add months to important housing developments https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41849067.html

• DUBLIN City Council register identifies more than 120 derelict sites across the capital – Interactive map highlights concentration of neglected properties in inner city areas as owners face 7% annual levy and potential compulsory acquisition https://breakingground.news/dublin-city-council-register-identifies-more-than-120-derelict-sites-across-the-capital/

• Irish rents see sharpest quarterly rise in more than 20 years with 4.4% jump in one quarter as average two-bed apartment reaches €2,176: Open-market rents rose by 4.4% in the first quarter of 2026, according to the latest Daft.ie Rental Report, marking the largest quarterly increase recorded since the series began in 2002 as revised rent rules came into force nationwide. https://ipropertyradio.com/irish-rents-see-sharpest-quarterly-rise-in-more-than-20-years-with-4-4-jump-in-one-quarter-as-average-two-bed-apartment-reaches-e2176/

• MINISTER FOR HOUSING James Browne has defended the government’s controversial rental reforms after new figures showed rents rising at their fastest pace in 25 years  https://www.thejournal.ie/minister-james-brown-says-plan-is-working-despite-rising-rent-prices-7045310-May2026/

• Why did rents just see a massive increase? Ireland’s rental market is experiencing historic levels of strain. Rents surged by 4.4% between December and March, marking the largest quarterly increase on record for the Daft.ie series https://www.thejournal.ie/podcasts/66f2a0897a3d63d20ff54509/6a103ae7d7997e788ca1e8e1/

• ‘Exceptionally busy’ Ires Reit bosses turn down invite from TDs probing surprise apartment fees https://www.thejournal.ie/ires-reit-service-charges-7044885-May2026/

• Gaeltacht housing demand concentrated among under-44s as 44% want to build homes locally: Udarás na Gaeltachta finds strong demand for standalone rural housing, with young Irish speakers citing lack of supply as barrier to remaining in Gaeltacht https://ipropertyradio.com/gaeltacht-housing-demand-concentrated-among-under-44s-as-44-want-to-build-homes-locally/

• Revenue threat having desired effect rejuvenating Mayo derelict properties: Castlebar is serving as a catalyst for redevelopment, with government grants and the looming threat of Revenue intervention proving to be the twin engines accelerating renewal in the county town at long last https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/05/17/revenue-threat-having-desired-effect-rejuvenating-mayo-derelict-properties/

• Meath couple face application for costs of demolition of illegally built home: Chris and Rose Murray are disputing court’s contempt finding against them https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2026/05/18/meath-couple-face-application-for-costs-of-demolition-of-illegally-built-home/

• Nearly 90% of Dublin’s data centres are located in economically deprived communities: Tasc found that 84 of the 97 Dublin area data centres are in disadvantaged areas. https://www.thejournal.ie/nearly-90-of-dublins-data-centres-located-in-economically-deprived-communities-7047279-May2026/

• Ironic that data centres are contributing to job cuts in the world’s data centre capital: Ireland’s problem is not a lack of State planning, but rather planning that concentrates on making the country a profitable environment for foreign investment https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/05/22/ironic-that-data-centres-are-contributing-to-job-cuts-in-the-worlds-data-centre-capital/

• Cairn, UCD, Kilsaran and Ecocem consortium secures funding for low-carbon cement project https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0518/1573908-low-carbon-cement-project/

• SCSI publishes report on workplace culture in Ireland’s property sector: Report looks at experiences of professionals across property, construction and land sectors https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/05/21/scsi-publishes-report-on-workplace-culture-in-irelands-property-sector/

• Delay expected before next review of Westmeath County Development Plan as legislation awaited https://www.westmeathexaminer.ie/2026/05/21/delay-expected-before-next-review-of-westmeath-county-development-plan-as-legislation-awaited/#

• Irish couple hit with €6,500 ‘blackmail’ demand from squatters in Spanish holiday home: It could take years to get the home back through the courts https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/irish-couple-hit-6500-blackmail-33999651#

• For National Biodiversity Week 2026: Why early medieval Ireland had laws for bees https://theconversation.com/why-early-medieval-ireland-had-laws-for-bees-283168

• Inside the Irish factory at the centre of the global weight-loss revolution: Eli Lilly’s huge 50-hectare manufacturing hub in Kinsale has placed Ireland at the centre of the biggest shift in global medicine in decades https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/05/22/inside-the-irish-factory-at-the-centre-of-the-global-weight-loss-revolution/

EU POLICY & RESEARCH IMPACTING HOUSING DELIVERY 

Taoiseach Micheál Martin was in Rome on Friday and met with the Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni, as part of his programme of meetings with leaders ahead of Ireland’s Presidency of the EU Council.  The Leaders discussed preparations for Ireland’s upcoming Presidency, which begins on July 1, as well as bilateral relations and international issues.

WHAT I AM READING THIS WEEK

When Minister Jack Chambers told the Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland conference last week that “risk aversion is holding us back” — as reported in The Irish Times under the headline ‘Government to encourage public service to take more risks for infrastructure’ — he was calling out a debate with a longer history than this week’s coverage suggests. Two books I picked up recently in a secondhand bookshop speak directly to that history. Both were published before I was born (and I am nearly three decades in this industry), and both are worth dusting off now.

The first is The Irish Civil Service by Seán Dooney, published by the Institute of Public Administration in 1976 (https://amzn.to/4deW62a) — written, in its own words, in response to “the growing size, power and cost of the public service” having become “a controversial subject”. Fifty years on, that controversy has not gone away; it has direct relevance to the question of infrastructure delivery.

The second is Advisory Bodies in Irish Government by Donald E. Leon, published by the Institute of Public Administration in 1963 (https://amzn.to/42EWVLG). It is, as far as I can establish, the first sustained examination of the use and growing influence of interest groups and outside experts on the Irish public service. Leon opens with a definition worth sitting with as we debate where decision-making authority should now sit: “Democracy can perhaps be defined and measured in terms of the number and variety of persons and interests whose views are taken into account in deciding policy…”

The Dooney is still available on Amazon at the link above; the Leon is not currently in stock, but you can add it to your list in case a copy surfaces.

PS — an architect told me recently that his office had cleared their library of old books to make room for renovation. Please don’t dump these; let me know if you are looking to “rehome” any old books touching on place and the built environment. There is still insight to be captured from these early records.

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

1. 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.

• New location for Cork City Library to transform cultural quarter: Cork City Council announced last week that it had bought the Counting House complex on South Main St for €35m from JPDC Ltd, part of BAM https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41849670.html

• Residents in growing housing estates across Meath are being encouraged to set up residents’ associations, which can play an “important role” in helping estates to be taken in charge by the local authority https://www.independent.ie/county/meath/residents-associations-can-help-estates-get-taken-in-charge-meath-residents-told/a/152340463.html

• Could Mountjoy Square be Dublin’s most important park? In praise of Mountjoy Square, Dublin 1’s much-maligned park that is one of the city’s most important green spaces. https://www.thejournal.ie/readme/mountjoy-square-7044796-May2026/

• Galway County Council has revealed that it hopes to proceed to construction of the Coast Road cycle and walkway in Oranmore during the latter half of this year.   https://www.connachttribune.ie/news/progress-on-oranmore-coastal-cycle-and-walkway-and-on-rail-parking-8541788

• Plans for a natural gas plant near a Galway town has seen significant pushback from residents as a fundraiser against the proposal nears its target  https://www.independent.ie/county/galway/opposition-grows-to-planned-galway-gas-plant-as-fundraiser-nears-target/a/151738901.html

• Limerick travellers criticise planning in relation to housing development near halting site: Travellers in Toppins Field halting site, Roxboro, Limerick, say housing plan fails to consider humans and horses https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/planning/2084483/limerick-travellers-criticise-planning-in-relation-to-housing-development-near-halting-site.html

• Multi-functional Community, Arts and Commercial Space Proposed for Newcastle West: Limerick City And County Council Has Opened A Public Consultation On Plans To Transform A Number Of Existing Buildings On Maiden Street, Newcastle West, Into A New Multi-Functional Community, Arts And Commercial Hub. The Consultation Is Open From 24 April 2026 Until 4pm On 9 June 2026. https://publicconsultation.ie/multi-functional-community-arts-and-commercial-space-proposed-for-newcastle-west/

• Provision of Temporary Park & Ride Facility for Ryder Cup 2027 Opens for Public Consultation in Limerick: Limerick City And County Council Has Opened A Public Consultation On Proposals For A Temporary Park & Ride Facility At Collopy’s Cross, Attyflin, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick. The Consultation Forms Part Of The Wider Transport Planning Strategy For The Ryder Cup 2027 And Will Remain Open Until 4pm On 12 June 2026. https://publicconsultation.ie/provision-of-temporary-park-ride-facility-for-ryder-cup-2027-opens-for-public-consultation-in-limerick/

• TIPPERARY: The draft masterplan for the 2.7 acres former Goldcrop site in Carrick-on-Suir will go on public display next week https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/draft-masterplan-for-redevelopment-of-derelict-tipperary-site-to-go-on-public-display-next-week-8553751#google_vignette

•  MAYO County Council and the roads design office have been asked to hold a public consultation event to discuss plans for a pedestrian crossing in Foxford https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/05/21/in-person-consultation-sought-on-how-plans-for-mayo-town-crossing-were-arrived-at/

• ‘Tremendous opportunity for Carrigaholt’ says Keating with Irish College ‘in the middle of planning process’ https://www.clareecho.ie/tremendous-opportunity-for-carrigaholt-says-keating-with-irish-college-in-the-middle-of-planning-process/

Rural, Coastal & Islands

• Relaxed rural housing rules aimed at luring emigrants back home set to go before Cabinet: Local authorities will be told not to block controversial one-off homes in ribbon developments and backland sites https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/relaxed-rural-housing-rules-aimed-at-luring-emigrants-back-home-set-to-go-before-cabinet/a/152355718.html#

• Mayo woman refused permission to build single-storey, three‑bedroom house on the site of an existing ruin on family land owned and farmed for generations beside Lough Mask https://m.independent.ie/regionals/mayo/news/mayo-woman-refused-permission-to-build-home-on-family-land-beside-lough-mask/a1286955921.html

• Renter in a tourist town in County Clare has said he “feels” anger about the number of rural homes rented out on Airbnb. https://www.newstalk.com/news/airbnb-3-2261384

• Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, has admitted that the current planning regime for peat extraction is “problematic” and has signalled that he has no objection in principle to removing planning controls on peat harvesting https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/minister-admits-planning-system-is-problematic-for-the-peat-sector-in-offaly-8555161

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CONSTRUCTION: https://breakingground.news 

• Johnny Ronan’s group one of six parties to appeal DCC planning permission for €100m St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre redevelopment  https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/johnny-ronans-group-one-of-six-parties-to-appeal-dcc-planning-permission-for-100m-st-stephens-green-shopping-centre-redevelopment/a/152137422.html#

• GagaMuller, an Irish project and cost-management consultancy that specialises in the delivery of data-centre infrastructure, is creating 70 jobs as part of a €2m investment. It is anticipated that the positions will be created over the next 12 months. https://www.independent.ie/business/irish-business/irish-project-consultancy-firm-gagamuller-invests-2m-in-new-headquarters/a/152112929.html

• 211 further apartments given planning at mega Cork scheme: Jacob’s Island is due to see 1,200 new units built in the coming years https://www.independent.ie/county/cork/211-further-apartments-given-planning-at-mega-cork-scheme/a/152624139.html

• Objections to major Cork City development lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála: Residents have opposed a decision by Cork City Council to give planning to Maryborough Manor https://www.independent.ie/county/cork/objections-to-major-cork-city-development-lodged-with-an-coimisiun-pleanala/a/152011624.html

• Cork council seeks developer as long-derelict buildings on North Main St set for facelift: Council seeks ‘high-quality urban design’ that creates attractive environment for city-centre living and employment https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41849550.html

• Just over 500 new homes commenced in Galway city and county since the start of the year. 133 of those are in the city – with the first four months of this year close to 2025’s end of year total. Meanwhile, 373 new homes commenced in the county since the start of 2026 – an increase of 60 percent on the same time last year. https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/over-500-new-homes-commenced-in-galway-city-and-county-this-year-221449

• GALWAY: Graphite Fusion plans to build more than 80 apartments and townhouses across 12 blocks at a site in Murrough, fronting onto Gleann Rua Road https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/plans-approved-for-significant-housing-development-in-renmore-220984

• Limerick set for major housing expansion with 950 homes in pipeline https://www.independent.ie/county/limerick/limerick-set-for-major-housing-expansion-with-950-homes-in-pipeline/a/152106575.html#

• ‘This is a recipe for problems down the road’ – new development has parking for 1 out of 3 units https://www.waterford-news.ie/news/this-is-a-recipe-for-problems-down-the-road-new-development-has-parking-for-1-out-of-3-units_arid-98467.html

• Cairn Homes plans to create 80 jobs with new Applegreen and retail hub in Wicklow: Forecourt plan marks first step in long-delayed development https://www.independent.ie/county/wicklow/cairn-homes-plans-to-create-80-jobs-with-new-applegreen-and-retail-hub-in-wicklow/a/152026525.html

• New plans for 13 Wicklow homes aims to address refusal over road adequacy for same site https://www.independent.ie/county/wicklow/new-plans-for-13-wicklow-homes-aims-to-address-refusal-over-road-adequacy-for-same-site/a/151642492.html#

• 14-acre Wicklow development land guiding in the region of €1.5 million https://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/14-acre-wicklow-development-land-guiding-in-the-region-of-1.5-million/a/151735006.html#

• Plans have been lodged with Louth County Council for a new 68-home residential development in Drogheda, on behalf of Ballymakenny Developments Ltd, for lands east of Ballymakenny Road and south of Listoke Avenue https://www.independent.ie/county/louth/plans-lodged-for-68-home-development-in-drogheda/a/151999946.html#

• Concerns raised over increased rat activity at rapidly expanding Louth housing development https://www.independent.ie/county/louth/concerns-raised-over-increased-rat-activity-at-rapidly-expanding-louth-housing-development/a/152337645.html#

• An Coimisiún Pleanála approve construction of 94 new homes in Athlone https://www.independent.ie/county/westmeath/an-coimisiun-pleanala-approve-construction-of-94-new-homes-in-athlone/a/152108508.html#

• Construction begins on €4.6 million redevelopment of Laois landmark https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/video-and-photogallery/construction-begins-on-eu46-million-redevelopment-of-laois-landmark-8551343

• Westmeath Town Secures Approval For 94-House Development https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/westmeath-town-secures-approval-for-94-house-development/

• The decision by Tipperary County Council to demolish 52 partially completed houses overlooking the Rock of Cashel is “absolutely unfathomable”, a spokesperson for the original developer of the project has said https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2026/05/19/demolition-of-52-partially-completed-tipperary-houses-absolutely-unfathomable-says-developer/

• Ballintubber Abbey has received confirmation that the contract for the new Cultural and Heritage Visitor Centre is about to be officially awarded, with construction set to begin very soon.  https://www.westernpeople.ie/news/green-light-for-construction-on-major-mayo-project_arid-98372.html

• Land adjacent to M1 motorway with full planning for logistics unit guiding €5.75m: Land bank of 27 acres occupies high-profile position next to M1 Retail Park near Drogheda https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/05/20/land-adjacent-to-m1-motorway-with-full-planning-for-logistics-unit-guiding-575m/

• Leitrim County Council has approved the development of eight homes in Dromod, subject to 20 planning conditions. https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/new-housing-development-approved-in-leitrim-with-conditions-attached-8554586

• Green light for former Donegal hotel to be developed into gym, creche and spa facilities https://www.independent.ie/county/donegal/green-light-for-former-donegal-hotel-to-be-developed-into-gym-creche-and-spa-facilities/a/152108118.html

• There were 85 housing commencements in Donegal last month, an increase of nine compared to April 2025 https://highlandradio.com/2026/05/21/increases-recorded-in-donegal-housing-commencements/

• Multi-million euro plans unveiled for former Ennis hospital, including 160 new homes: Our Lady’s Hospital closed in March 2002 homes https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41849553.html

Breaking Ground News: Appointments & Construction Careers

• 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/

• Numbers working in construction surges by 11.7% amid generally weak CSO jobs data: Concern as the number of people in employment falls by 15,700, or 0.6%, from the previous quarter on a seasonally adjusted basis https://www.irishtimes.com/business/work/2026/05/21/numbers-working-in-construction-jump-117-amid-generally-weak-cso-jobs-data/

• PJ Hegarty appoints Maurice Killeen as Ireland Managing Director as turnover exceeds €500m: Family-owned contractor promotes long-serving executive after 33 years with the business as major data centre, aviation and residential projects continue across Ireland and the UK https://breakingground.news/pj-hegarty-appoints-maurice-killeen-as-ireland-managing-director-as-turnover-exceeds-e500m/ 

• CHAIR of the Shannon Airport Group welcomed the appointment of commercial property expert Adrian Trueick to the company’s board https://www.limerickpost.ie/2026/05/21/property-expert-joins-shannon-airport-group/

CIF Safety Campaign 2026 Podcast 

 Join Wills Bros Group on the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Road Project

On the latest Construction Industry Federation (CIF) Safety podcast, Sean Downey and John Egan meet members of Wills Bros Group on the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge Road Project.

This landmark €450m investment will deliver over 33km of new national primary route, addressing long-standing safety and alignment challenges while supporting regional connectivity and growth.

🎙️ Across this 4-part series, recorded on-site in Roscommon, host of the #CIFSafety26 podcast series, Sean Downey, chats to:

Parts 1: Gavin McGeever, Section Agent (Sections C & D)

Watch – https://youtu.be/hhcmaSqDvcg?si=UGfZyvRIOqmDtejL  

Part 2: Thomas Mains – Structures Agent & Temporary works Co-ordinator 

Watch – https://youtu.be/VPIHcKhkfjM  

Part 3: Joseph Carr, Section Agent (Sections A & B)

Watch –  https://youtu.be/UOSFrv5NHTw?si=lTKtJBihsZnMrNoH 

Part 4: Gavin McGeever takes us on-site across Sections C & D

Watch – https://youtu.be/3xjL97yrMt0 

🎧 Listen back to all episodes: https://open.spotify.com/show/2SQXVgyerkhnxh80jnEORZ?si=9b099f48aee04b7d 

With thanks to Keith Mayock, Gerry Mockler and the rest of the Wills Bros Group project team 🙏

*Produced by Laura Maye

Recorded on sites across Ireland — from a European HQ in Dublin’s Docklands, to the largest Capex energy project in the State — catch up  the entire 2025 & 2026 series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5hAEpymn6vnhCbgSqe6T8TJTfB9mvD6C&si=ity7U_ANvSSyc0bU

REAL ESTATE: www.irishrealestate.news

Residential 

• Pepper fires up deals on mortgage-to-rent for distressed loans: The credit servicing firm Pepper Advantage Ireland got nearly 200 deals last year in long-term arrears cases https://www.thetimes.com/world/ireland-world/article/pepper-advantage-ireland-credit-servicing-firm-mortgage-to-rent-programme-zz0fmknqg

• Genevieve McGuirk: Confusion, delays and overbidding — Ireland’s home-buying process needs a re-balance  https://www.businesspost.ie/analysis-opinion/confusion-delays-and-overbidding-irelands-home-buying-process-needs-a-re-balance/#

• DAA’s multi-million euro home-insulation scheme stalled after European Commission intervention: Certain homes near Dublin Airport could avail of scheme https://www.independent.ie/business/daas-multi-million-euro-home-insulation-scheme-stalled-after-european-commission-intervention/a/152603290.html

• Home buyer appetite soaring all across East Cork region: “Homebuyers are placing greater value on community, space and quality of life, all of which East Cork can offer,” says Midleton-based estate agent Adrianna Hegarty https://www.irishexaminer.com/special-reports/arid-41849409.html

• Limerick City rents surge as new legislation sparks exodus of landlords: Average rents for two-bedroom apartments in Limerick City have reached a record high of over €2,180 a month, according to the latest figures from Daft.ie.  https://www.live95fm.ie/news/live95-news/limerick-city-rents-surge-as-new-legislation-sparks-exodus-of-landlords/

• After months of delays, uncertainty and mounting criticism, residents have finally moved into the long awaited homes at the Coopers Gate development on Old Road in Cashel https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/cashel/saga-ends-as-coopers-gate-residents-move-into-their-homes-after-long-delays-8553923

• PICTURED: Two historic West Wicklow stone cottages on 5.7 acres brought to market https://m.independent.ie/life/home-garden/homes/two-historic-wicklow-stone-cottages-on-57-acres-brought-to-market/a1946075086.html#

• What will €495,000 buy close to amenities in Kimmage and in the Galway countryside? Two homes, one price: A two-bed terrace in Dublin 12 or five-bed near Tuam https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/05/18/what-will-495000-buy-close-to-amenities-in-kimmage-and-in-the-galway-countryside/

*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/ 

Commercial 

• Citywest headquarters logistics unit for sale or to let, seeking €25.6m: Sandymark developing 98,576sq ft of LEED-Gold certified space suitable for a range of occupiers https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/05/20/citywest-headquarters-logistics-unit-for-sale-or-to-let-seeking-263m/

• Carrolls Irish Gifts in €4.15m deal for Henry Street premises: Well-known retailer sees off competing bids from a number of Irish and international investors  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/05/20/carrolls-irish-gifts-in-415m-deal-for-henry-street-premises/

• Galway city centre property comes up for sale, offering almost a 10pc annual return: Merchants Square is right in the heart of Galway https://www.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/galway-city-centre-property-comes-up-for-sale-offering-almost-a-10pc-annual-return/a/152175507.html

• PICTURED: Clare hoteliers acquire iconic property on Wild Atlantic Way: John Burke and Gerry Quin, the team behind the Fiddle and Bow collection, have recently added the well-known Hydro Hotel in Lisdoonvarna to their portfolios https://m.independent.ie/business/small-business/clare-hoteliers-acquire-iconic-property-on-wild-atlantic-way/a92331463.html#

• Vacant Longford Town Centre premises on market for €3 million: Dubbed the ‘definition of the Celtic Tiger white elephant’, Longford Town Centre which was completed in 2008 and has lain idle since has been put on the market so another developer or owner can ‘realise the full potential’ https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/vacant-longford-town-centre-premises-on-market-for-eu3-million-8554744

• Dunloe Hotel in Killarney gets €100m renovation from German Liebherr family: Owners have begun demolition work on the site, with plans for new spa and conferencing facilities as well as 18 high-end suites https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/05/23/dunloe-hotel-in-killarney-gets-100m-renovation-from-german-liebherr-family/

iProperty Radio: Property Round-Up

Housing Insights: The Housing Agency Podcast

This practitioner-led series aims to deepen the public’s understanding of housing in Ireland and highlight the work of The Housing Agency.

Hosted by David Silke (Director of Insights & Operations) and Roslyn Molloy (Head of Policy, Practice & Communications), the podcast features insightful interviews with housing experts.

 

🎙️ Links to all episodes at https://ipropertyradio.com/housing-agency/

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

• Manna refused permission to continue drone deliveries from Dublin 15 base https://www.independent.ie/county/dublin/manna-refused-permission-to-continue-drone-deliveries-from-dublin-15-base/a/152617548.html

• Sligo/Leitrim Junior Minister welcomes new XR Hub in Sligo:?This new facility at Sligo College of Further Education and Training in Strandhill, is a regional centre for immersive technology, digital innovation, and future-focused learning https://www.oceanfm.ie/news/sligo-leitrim-junior-minister-welcomes-new-xr-hub-in-sligo-1251889

PODCAST: The Proptech Hot Seat on iPropertyRadio.com

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

• New law to make state contracts transparent — from procurement to final spend  https://www.businesspost.ie/politics/new-law-to-make-state-contracts-transparent-from-procurement-to-final-spend/

• PICTURED: Marathon N6 Galway City Ring Road project has moved a step closer following the publication of the compulsory purchase order (CPO) notice last week https://www.connachttribune.ie/news/galway-ring-road-cpo-issued-as-residents-seek-clarity-8551536#google_vignette

• Four new stations will be provided along the route: Iarnród Éireann has published the Emerging Preferred Route for the new Navan Rail line. https://www.lmfm.ie/news/lmfm-news/plans-for-new-navan-railway-published/

• Approval has been given for the Water Supply Project Eastern and Midlands Region to proceed to the next stage under the Government’s Infrastructure Guidelines. This project involves the development of a new source of drinking water with the capacity to supply up to 50 per cent of Ireland’s population across the Eastern and Midlands region, including Meath. It will support housing and economic growth across the region in the decades to come. https://www.meathchronicle.ie/2026/05/21/green-light-for-major-water-supply-project-to-proceed-to-next-stage/

• €36m paid to landowners as Adare bypass aims for Ryder Cup deadline: Project consists of 7km of new motorway between the Adare and Croagh junctions and work commenced on the scheme in January 2025 https://www.roscommonherald.ie/36m-paid-to-landowners-as-adare-bypass-aims-for-ryder-cup-deadline_arid-99003.html

Separately:

• ‘How long is a piece of string?’ – No clear timeline for delivery of Limerick bypasses: Limerick City and County Council has provided an update on the N21 Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale Road Schemes https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/local-news/2082899/how-long-is-a-piece-of-string-no-clear-timeline-for-delivery-of-limerick-bypasses.html

• Uisce Éireann has agreed to urgently examine a new pipeline solution for Newpark and Newpark Court in Kinnegad following ongoing sewage and flooding problems https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/uisce-eireann-agree-to-examine-pipeline-solution-for-westmeath-town/

• Google-backed AI data centre giant weighs Irish entry https://www.businesspost.ie/uncategorized/google-backed-ai-data-centre-giant-weighs-irish-entry/

INTERNATIONAL 

• England must harvest rainfall and take action on water usage, Lords warn https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/may/21/england-harvest-rainfall-water-usage-shortages-house-of-lords-report

• ‘There is no great master plan’: anxiety as UK homes, roads and railways sink into the sea: Increasing coastal erosion has hit communities’ livelihoods and put lifestyles under threat https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/may/23/uk-homes-roads-railways-sink-into-the-sea

• Minister vows action on construction apprentice dropout rate: Skills minister Jacqui Smith has pledged to explore ways to stop apprentices from dropping out of construction. Smith spoke to Construction News after hosting a roundtable in east London with employers and trade bodies including Balfour Beatty, Build UK and the Construction Industry Training Board https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/government/minister-vows-action-on-construction-apprentice-dropout-rate-24-05-2026/