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

New data continues to highlight widening housing risk. Simon Communities reports an increasing risk of homelessness among older adults, while the Housing Agency finds that private renters and under-25s face the highest combined exposure to housing and energy precarity.

Government has opened a public consultation on a new Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan, with submissions invited from 19 January 2026 to 8 February 2026 [https://ipropertyradio.com/public-consultation-opens-on-child-and-family-homelessness-action-plan/]. The consultation seeks input on prevention, faster exits from homelessness and child wellbeing.

HOUSING DELIVERY: THREE KEY DEVELOPMENTS

First, Government has established a Joint Utilities and Transport Clearing House to improve coordination between utilities, transport bodies and local authorities, with the stated aim of reducing delays on major infrastructure and housing-enabling projects [https://breakingground.news/government-establishes-joint-clearing-house-to-speed-up-infrastructure-delivery/].

Second, a €1bn Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund has been opened to support construction-ready housing projects. The fund targets transport, water and utilities infrastructure and is intended to unlock housing delivery and support completions by 2028.

Third, Government has approved the preliminary business case for a €250m-plus upgrade to Limerick’s Bunlicky wastewater treatment plant. The project is expected to enable housing and economic growth across the mid-west, reinforcing the role of servicing capacity and infrastructure sequencing in housing delivery.

On governance, the Supreme Court has ruled that a lack of resources does not excuse a local authority’s statutory obligation to prepare local plans [https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2026/01/22/lack-of-resources-cannot-excuse-duty-to-prepare-local-plans-supreme-court-rules/].. The judgment has direct relevance for delayed local area plans, Urban Development Zones and other designated growth areas.

Separately, MetroLink programme director Seán Sweeney has publicly criticised Ireland’s planning and judicial review system, warning that individual judicial reviews can delay or prevent nationally significant infrastructure projects and undermine delivery certainty [https://www.thetimes.com/world/ireland-world/article/sean-sweeney-metrolink-interview-planning-democracy-objections-cb32vm85k].

These developments sit alongside Recommendation #1 of the Housing Commission report, which calls on Government to ‘RECOGNISE AND PRIORITISE DEALING WITH IRELAND’S HOUSING DEFICIT AND ADDRESS IT THROUGH EMERGENCY ACTION’ https://breakingground.news/recognise-and-prioritise-dealing-with-irelands-housing-deficit-and-address-it-through-emergency-action/

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:

• Irish house prices rise 6.6% annually as momentum eases into late 2025: Transaction volumes and values fall back despite continued regional price growth

Irish house prices rise 6.6% annually as momentum eases into late 2025

• Older people increasingly at risk of homelessness as policy gaps exposed: New Simon Communities report warns Ireland has a narrow window to prevent a deeper crisis among ageing renters https://ipropertyradio.com/older-people-increasingly-at-risk-of-homelessness-as-policy-gaps-exposed/

• Younger Renters Most Exposed as Housing and Energy Insecurity Intersect: New research finds private renters and under-25s face highest risk of combined housing and energy precarity in Ireland

Younger Renters Most Exposed as Housing and Energy Insecurity Intersect

• O’Meara calls for easing of planning laws around log cabins https://tippfm.com/news/housing/omeara-calls-for-easing-of-planning-laws-around-log-cabins/

• Public consultation opens on Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan: Government seeks submissions to shape cross-departmental response focused on prevention, faster exits and child wellbeingnhttps://ipropertyradio.com/public-consultation-opens-on-child-and-family-homelessness-action-plan/

• ‘RECOGNISE AND PRIORITISE DEALING WITH IRELAND’S HOUSING DEFICIT AND ADDRESS IT THROUGH EMERGENCY ACTION’ – Recommendation #1 Housing Commission: We have succeeded in normalising the unacceptable

‘RECOGNISE AND PRIORITISE DEALING WITH IRELAND’S HOUSING DEFICIT AND ADDRESS IT THROUGH EMERGENCY ACTION’

• Home prices will fall within four years, vows agency boss: State body’s chief executive insists supply is ‘more positive than it seems’ and that will put downward pressure on prices https://www.thetimes.com/world/ireland-world/article/housing-agency-martin-whelan-2030-new-homes-house-prices-5w6bjt3pw

• Opposition parties refuse to sign off housing committee report examining Government’s plans: Parties dissent from housing committee’s report scrutinising draft laws reforming rental sector  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/22/opposition-parties-refuse-to-sign-off-housing-committee-report-examining-governments-plans/

• Government establishes joint clearing house to speed up infrastructure delivery: New forum brings utilities, transport bodies and local authorities together to remove delays in major projects https://breakingground.news/government-establishes-joint-clearing-house-to-speed-up-infrastructure-delivery/

• Government opens €1bn housing infrastructure fund to fast-track construction-ready projects: New Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund targets transport, water and utilities to unlock housing delivery by 2028 https://breakingground.news/government-opens-e1bn-housing-infrastructure-fund-to-fast-track-construction-ready-projects/

• Local authorities criticised for failure to collect €32m in derelict-site levies: Minister for Housing James Browne suggested the situation reflected poorly on authorities that bemoan lack of funds https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2026/01/23/local-authorities-criticised-for-failure-to-collect-32m-in-derelict-site-levies/

• Lack of resources in councils to prepare local plans cannot excuse a local authority’s statutory duty to do so, the Supreme Court has ruled https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2026/01/22/lack-of-resources-cannot-excuse-duty-to-prepare-local-plans-supreme-court-rules/

• Housing delivery under the spotlight as collaboration takes centre stage: RIAI and Housing Department conference frames collaboration as the key lever for faster, more sustainable housing outcomes https://ipropertyradio.com/housing-delivery-under-the-spotlight-as-collaboration-takes-centre-stage/

• Construction start-ups rise 18% as Ireland records strongest year for new firms in 15 years: CRIFVision-Net data shows housing and infrastructure demand driving new company formation, while financial pressure mounts on established businesses https://breakingground.news/construction-start-ups-rise-18-as-ireland-records-strongest-year-for-new-firms-in-15-years/

• MetroLink boss Sean Sweeney has estimated that the cost of buying homes in south Dublin will be “more than €30m”, but says some may not choose to sell their houses as the value is likely to go up once the project is completed  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/metrolink-boss-says-cost-of-buying-10-south-dublin-homes-will-be-more-than-30m/a1323912872.html

• Irish property’s big hitters on why they’re heading to Cannes https://www.businesspost.ie/property/we-think-theyll-be-interested-irish-propertys-big-hitters-head-to-cannes-to-woo-investors/

• Ireland’s largest town getting left behind as Drogheda’s infrastructure not keeping pace with growth: A second train station for Droghea is not included in the national National Development Plan https://m.independent.ie/regionals/louth/drogheda-news/irelands-largest-town-getting-left-behind-as-droghedas-infrastructure-not-keeping-pace-with-growth/a901059859.html#

• Revolut says Irish mortgage launch still in development despite previously setting a 2026 introduction date: Fintech faced Oireachtas Finance Committee over worries its security is not robust enough https://m.independent.ie/business/revolut-says-irish-mortgage-launch-still-in-development-despite-previously-setting-a-2026-introduction-date/a104002193.html#

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

• PUBLIC CONSULTATION IN IRELAND: Principles, Purpose and Practice – Public consultation is a core element of democratic governance in Ireland. It provides a structured mechanism through which citizens, civil society organisations, businesses and other stakeholders can contribute to the development of public policy, legislation and services. While consultation does not replace representative decision-making, it is intended to inform it, improve outcomes, and strengthen public trust in government https://publicconsultation.ie/public-consultation-in-ireland-principles-purpose-and-practice/ 

• Child and Family Homelessness Action Plan Public Consultation: Open Public Consultation To Inform The Development Of A New Child And Family Homelessness Action Plan https://publicconsultation.ie/child-and-family-homelessness-action-plan-public-consultation/

• Locals ‘rendered voiceless’ after Harcourt Street hotel development approved: The hotel, located at a junction beside St Stephen’s Green, will expand significantly to add 22 rooms https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/locals-rendered-voiceless-after-harcourt-33259816.amp

• First ever Masterplan being developed for Claregalway https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/first-ever-masterplan-being-developed-for-claregalway-212054

• Artists invited to design landmark public artwork for Galway train station https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/artists-invited-to-design-landmark-public-artwork-for-galway-train-station/a1681015286.html#

• MASTERPLANNING: Waterford-based dhbArchitects ltd has been appointed for the development of a Design and Innovation Hub at 35-39 Nicholas Street, known as The Fireplace Site in Limerick, marking the commencement of a major project aimed at reducing vacancy and generating footfall along Nicholas Street and the wider King’s Island area https://www.live95fm.ie/news/live95-news/design-team-appointed-for-e6-5-million-historic-nicholas-street-fireplace-site/

• Wicklow County Council is being asked to take all submissions into account for the Seaview Avenue Masterplan in Arklow and to “Go Big” with their proposal https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/arklow-news/call-for-wicklow-county-council-to-go-big-on-arklow-seaview-avenue-masterplan/a709021245.html#

• Laois County Council shortlisted for ‘Council of the Year’ award: Laois County Council has also been shortlisted for a number of other prestigious awards https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/laois-live/1997926/laois-county-council-shortlisted-for-council-of-the-year-award.html

• Mayo County Council has been urged to establish a dedicated dereliction team, similar to that of Limerick Council, amid mounting frustration over vacant and crumbling buildings across the county and the poor collection rate of derelict site levies https://m.independent.ie/regionals/mayo/news/something-is-seriously-wrong-in-mayo-council-executive-urged-to-follow-limericks-example-on-dereliction/a1346770003.html#

• Mayo County Council is working towards delivering new social and affordable homes across the county this year, as part of its ongoing commitment to tackling housing needs in the county https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/01/19/mayo-county-council-launches-housing-focus-information-campaign/#

• Sligo’s O’Connell Street to get seating integrated with planter boxes: New planter boxes will have integrated seating https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligo/news/sligos-oconnell-street-to-get-seating-integrated-with-planter-boxes/a176120284.html#

• ‘Up to’ eight sites across the country to be chosen to become first State-led childcare facilities: The plan, announced today, will see up to 800 places made available this year. https://www.thejournal.ie/not-for-profit-childcare-facilities-6934030-Jan2026/

• Almost 700 historic buildings to receive €8 million in conservation funding: Built Heritage Investment Scheme 2026 to support restoration works across cities, towns and rural Ireland https://ipropertyradio.com/almost-700-historic-buildings-to-receive-e8-million-in-conservation-funding/

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/ 

• Dublin City Council housing chair suggests ‘encouraging people away from the city’: Deirdre Heney endorses rural quality of life in discussion of strained services https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/dublin-news/dublin-city-council-housing-chair-suggests-encouraging-people-away-from-the-city/a461672979.html

• Would you rather live in the city or the countryside? Dublin city councillor Deirdre Heney suggested during a council meeting last week that its housing committee encourage people to move from the city. https://www.thejournal.ie/poll-city-or-countryside-6937079-Jan2026/

• Two in five farmers have no formal successor as ageing demographics fuel looming succession crisis: Ifac Report has revealed that two in five farmers have no formal successor despite the ageing population, succession planning proving to be a ongoing challenge https://www.irishexaminer.com/farming/arid-41779571.html

• What the Sector’s New Wind Energy Strategy Means for Landowners and Local Communities https://placeengage.com/what-the-sectors-new-wind-energy-strategy-means-for-landowners-and-local-communities/

• Active Travel and Greenways A Placemaking Opportunity for 2026: Beautiful rural Ireland is becoming ever more accessible https://placeengage.com/active-travel-and-greenways-a-placemaking-opportunity-for-2026/

• Keeping the Irish Language Alive in the Gaeltacht Through Public Services and Place https://placeengage.com/keeping-the-irish-language-alive-in-the-gaeltacht-through-public-services-and-place/

• An Ghaeilge a Choinneáil Beo sa Ghaeltacht Trí Sheirbhísí Poiblí agus Trí Áit https://placeengage.com/an-ghaeilge-a-choinneail-beo-sa-ghaeltacht-tri-sheirbhisi-poibli-agus-tri-ait/

• Independent review published on first 10 Gaeltacht language plans as second cycle approaches https://publicconsultation.ie/independent-review-published-on-first-10-gaeltacht-language-plans-as-second-cycle-approaches/ 

• Calls have been made for urgent action on dereliction in Clare towns and villages as part of efforts to deal with rural depopulation https://www.clare.fm/news/call-for-action-on-dereliction-in-rural-clare-to-aid-effort-to-tackle-rural-depopulation/

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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/

• Restoration of 200-year-old George’s Dock in central Dublin due to start in coming months: Public favour pool plan for facility formerly earmarked as white-water rafting venue  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/01/20/restoration-of-georges-dock-in-central-dublin-due-to-start-in-coming-months/

• Simon Harris told to keep informed on Central Bank plan to move ‘mint’: Existing Sandyford site could accommodate 800 new homes https://m.independent.ie/business/simon-harris-told-to-keep-informed-on-central-bank-plan-to-move-mint/a1864174458.html#

• Landmark Drumcondra property offers scope for residential development at €3.75m guide: Clonturk House and gate lodge sit on a 1.3-acre site zoned for housing and range of other uses https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/01/21/landmark-drumcondra-property-offers-scope-for-residential-development-at-375m-guide/

• Planning row erupts over 55 apartments in south Dublin as residents raise concerns about child safety and ‘aggressive drivers’ https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/planning-row-erupts-over-55-apartments-in-south-dublin-as-residents-raise-concerns-about-child-safety-and-aggressive-drivers/a1295804829.html#

• Rohan Holdings fires up delivery of 500,000sq ft of logistics space along the M50: Facility of 290,000sq ft for Sports Direct and An Post mail-distribution centre among projects already under way https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/01/21/rohan-holdings-fires-up-delivery-of-500000sq-ft-of-logistics-space-along-the-m50/

• Cork town set for massive expansion as 302-home development gets the green light: Cork County Council rubber stamps Fermoy development which includes houses, apartments and a crèche https://m.independent.ie/regionals/cork/news/cork-town-set-for-massive-expansion-as-302-home-development-gets-the-green-light/a1798594184.html

• Construction announced for Galway community centre five decades in pipeline https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/construction-announced-for-galway-community-centre-five-decades-in-pipeline/a1856841546.html#

• Decision to refuse plans for student accommodation to be built in a former Galway bakery has been appealed to An Coimisiún Pleanála https://m.independent.ie/regionals/galway/news/appeal-lodged-over-rejected-plans-to-turn-galway-bakery-into-student-accommodation/a1821125434.html

• An appeal has been lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála against a decision to grant planning permission for 91 homes on the southern outskirts of Waterford city https://m.independent.ie/regionals/waterford/news/tenement-buildings-will-create-a-poor-impression-of-our-city-waterford-locals-object-to-plans-for-91-new-homes/a2130693683.html#

• Ballymore’s Sean Mulryan and his team will meet Roscommon County Council to outline the company’s masterplan to develop Athlone as Ireland’s first green city https://www.roscommonherald.ie/news/sean-mulryan-to-attend-next-weeks-council-meeting-to-outline-athlone-city-plan_arid-84484.html

• Clarity sought on plans to develop 15 homes on landmark Wicklow hotel site https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/bray-news/clarity-sought-on-plans-to-develop-15-homes-on-landmark-wicklow-hotel-site/a854186288.html

• Work due to start on 29 new homes in Kildare: A mix of apartments, terraced houses, semi-detached homes and detached houses in Ballitore  https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/kildare-now/1992784/work-due-to-start-on-29-new-homes-in-kildare.html

• Carlow town lands primed for housing seeking €5m: Holding is located adjacent to existing residential development and is 2½km from town centre https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/01/21/carlow-town-lands-primed-for-housing-seeking-5m/

• Drogheda: Prime West Street investment with permission for three apartments https://m.independent.ie/regionals/louth/drogheda-news/prime-west-street-investment-with-permission-for-three-apartments/a343739329.html

• Decision to refuse planning for 63 homes in Dundalk appealed: An Bord Coimisiún to decide on appeal https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/louth-live/1992509/decision-to-refuse-planning-for-63-homes-in-dundalk-appealed.html

• Sligo County Council has given notice that it proposes to carry out works at Harte’s Court, Grange that will consist of the construction of 12 one and two-storey dwellings https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligo/news/houses-and-apartment-plan-for-the-centre-of-grange/a610804592.html#

• Ballina is now eligible for an affordable housing scheme: It comes after much campaigning, lobbying and a KPMG report which analysed the market needs https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2026/01/21/mayo-town-is-now-eligible-for-affordable-housing-scheme/#

• Proposal made to Council for 17-home development in South Leitrim https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/local-news/1996304/proposal-made-to-council-for-17-home-development-in-south-leitrim.html

• Plans for a development of 96 houses in Clonmel, which had been given the go-ahead by Tipperary County Council, have been appealed to An Coimisiún Pleanála https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/clonmel/1994072/massive-housing-development-planned-for-tipperary-is-under-appeal.html

• Planning application submitted for new three-bedroom homes in Tipperary: Bretland Construction seeks extension of duration for ongoing residential plans https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/home/1994137/planning-application-submitted-for-new-three-bedroom-homes-in-tipperary.html

• High Court Clears The Way For Ennis’ Largest Ever Private Housing Scheme https://www.clare.fm/news/high-court-clears-the-way-for-ennis-largest-ever-private-housing-scheme/

• 2025 saw lowest commencement of homes in Kerry in ten years https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/2025-saw-lowest-commencement-of-homes-in-kerry-in-ten-years-468312

• Planning sought for 124 new housing units in Killarney: Wrightwood Development Ltd has applied for planning permission to build 124 housing units on agricultural lands at Ardshanavooley https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/planning-sought-for-124-new-housing-units-in-killarney-468478

• Kerry developers urged to bring plans for affordable housing ‘or Killarney will lose young families and workers’ https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerry/south-kerry-news/kerry-developers-urged-to-bring-plans-for-affordable-housing-or-killarney-will-lose-young-families-and-workers/a1985348909.html

• Home builder Cairn Homes said its revenues for 2025 meet its expectations, adding that it is ideally positioned for 2026 and beyond as the “extraordinary” demand for housing continues https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0120/1554028-cairn-homes-trading-update/ Also: Cairn has 4,000 apartments under construction with sales seen topping €1bn this year: Initiatives and supports for apartment building ‘are significant steps which will be very impactful’, says CEO Michael Stanley  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/01/20/cairn-has-4000-apartments-under-construction-with-sales-seen-topping-1bn-this-year/

• SOCOTEC UK & Ireland opens Dublin office as Irish operations expand – New capital base follows acquisition of Lloyds Datum Group and supports broader technical consultancy offering https://breakingground.news/socotec-opens-dublin-office-as-irish-operations-expand/

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.

• Public consultation opens on apprenticeship plan central to construction and infrastructure delivery: Government targets 12,500 annual apprentices by 2030 with two-thirds in craft and construction https://breakingground.news/public-consultation-opens-on-apprenticeship-plan-central-to-construction-and-infrastructure-delivery/

• Minister looks to reduce apprenticeships by a year to increase construction sector workforce: James Lawless suggests private-sector colleges could play bigger role in delivering classroom-based elements of apprenticeships  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/19/minister-looks-to-reduce-apprenticeships-by-a-year-to-increase-construction-sector-workforce/

Get all the latest job details straight to your inbox: Sign up https://breakingground.news/sign-up-form/

• 12 MONTHS OF GOVERNMENT: €4.55bn education and research capital spend drives construction pipeline one year into Government term: PPP campuses, student accommodation, research facilities and skills funding underpin sustained built environment activity nationwide – https://breakingground.news/one-year-in-government-investment-in-skills-and-campuses-reshapes-irelands-built-environment-pipeline/

REAL ESTATE: www.irishrealestate.news

Residential 

•  Irish home prices hit €390,000 as 2026 market takes shape for buyers and sellers: Energy ratings and location driving widening price gaps as sales volumes fall https://ipropertyradio.com/irish-home-prices-hit-e390000-as-2026-market-takes-shape-for-buyers-and-sellers/

• 26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BUYING PROPERTY IN 2026: House prices are still rising, activity is slowing, and where you buy matters more than ever… https://ipropertyradio.com/iproperty-radio-26-things-to-know-before-buying-property-in-ireland-in-2026/

• Dutch family office in €50m deal for Dublin apartment portfolio: Deal sees 115 newly developed homes sold for an average of €434,782 per unit  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/01/21/dutch-family-office-in-50m-deal-for-dublin-apartment-portfolio/

• House prices continue to rise but pace of growth eases in late 2025: National prices up 6.6% year-on-year as Dublin growth lags regions https://ipropertyradio.com/house-prices-continue-to-rise-but-pace-of-growth-eases-in-late-2025/

• ‘Not a silver bullet’: How new short-term loans might impact the Irish housing market: As Bank of Ireland readies its new product for people trading down, we take a look at the return of bridging finance to the Irish market https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/01/20/not-a-silver-bullet-how-new-short-term-loans-might-impact-the-housing-market/

• Rent now, buy later: A new model for purchasing a home — Aimed at those who can’t afford to buy, or are without mortgage approval, the scheme offers an opportunity to move from renter to owner https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/01/20/rent-now-buy-later-the-new-model-looking-to-shake-up-how-we-purchase-our-homes/

• Fair Deal tenants won’t have right to stay for six years https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2026/0123/1554788-rent-changes/

• Wicklow delivered just nine new-build social homes in three month period https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/news/wicklow-delivered-just-nine-new-build-social-homes-in-three-month-period/a566255942.html#

• Strong uptake in Sligo for derelict property grants  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligo/news/strong-uptake-in-sligo-for-derelict-property-grants/a1948245883.html#

• Average Roscommon town house prices roughly €100,000 higher than Castlerea – CSO figures: Roscommon town continues to have the most expensive house prices in County Roscommon https://m.independent.ie/regionals/roscommon/news/average-roscommon-town-house-prices-roughly-100000-higher-than-castlerea-cso-figures/a163274261.html#

• Rental terminations are now Kerry’s ‘predominant’ housing issue, claims councillor https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerry/south-kerry-news/rental-terminations-are-now-kerrys-predominant-housing-issue-claims-councillor/a1621258320.html Also: Kerry is no county for log cabins: council has rejected all applications for log cabin homes: Those thinking about building a log cabin residence in Kerry should be mindful of the county council’s resistance to such developments https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerry/north-west-kerry-news/kerry-is-no-county-for-log-cabins-council-has-rejected-all-applications-for-log-cabin-homes/a1524630474.html

• Look inside: Period home restored to elegant glory on Dalkey’s Castle Park Road for €2.95m: Four-bed has been extended and meticulously renovated to create a light-filled, energy-efficient home https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/01/22/period-home-returned-to-former-glory-on-dalkeys-castle-park-road-for-295m/

• Five homes on view this week https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/01/22/five-homes-on-view-this-week-in-dublin-wicklow-and-kildare-from-450000/

• Our self-build story: ‘There was no architect designing the house. Every part of it was us’ https://m.independent.ie/life/home-garden/interiors/our-self-build-story-there-was-no-architect-designing-the-house-every-part-of-it-was-us/a248628830.html#

• Siblings’ self-build creates striking €800k home beside Youghal Golf Club: Brother-and-sister builders create a sustainable, high-spec coastal home with panoramic views in one of Youghal’s prime locations https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41780759.html

• Couple who built cabin home without permission sought ‘stable, permanent residence’: Family who had been on the council’s housing waiting list for nine years are granted retention https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/couple-who-built-cabin-home-without-permission-sought-stable-permanent-residence/a765071891.html

• Would you rather live in the city or the countryside? Dublin city councillor Deirdre Heney suggested during a council meeting last week that its housing committee encourage people to move from the city. https://www.thejournal.ie/poll-city-or-countryside-6937079-Jan2026/

*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/ 

Property of the week 

NEW HOMES OF THE WEEK: Wellfield by Kingscroft brings choice and energy efficiency to Ratoath buyers – Wide range of A-rated family homes launched close to village amenities and key commuter routes https://ipropertyradio.com/new-homes-of-the-week-bring-choice-and-energy-efficiency-to-ratoath-buyers/

Commercial 

• Mind the gap: Lisney’s Outlook 2026 maps Ireland’s property market fault lines https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial-real-estate/mind-the-gap-lisneys-outlook-2026-maps-irelands-property-market-fault-lines/

• Up to €4bn to be invested in Irish commercial property in 2026 despite global risks: CBRE expects market to move from period of stabilisation to new phase of growth https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2026/01/20/up-to-4bn-to-be-invested-in-irish-commercial-property-in-2026-despite-global-risks/

• Restaurant chain operator Nando’s is eyeing up potential sites for further expansion here as pre-tax profits at the company last year increased by 64pc to €7.7m https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/nandos-eyes-new-sites-for-planned-irish-expansion/a427303351.html#

• Pre-tax profits at the Irish arm of Swedish furnishing giant Ikea tumbled by 70.5pc to €6.91m in 2024 due to higher costs and lower revenues https://m.independent.ie/business/profits-tumble-705pc-at-ikeas-irish-arm/a1963153731.html#

• Barclays has said it has initiated plans to relocate its European headquarters from Dublin to Paris https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/barclays-plans-to-relocate-european-base-from-dublin-to-paris-1856225.html

• First Dublin pub sale announcement of 2026 relates to The White House, Baldoyle, Co Dublin, which has changed hands in an off-market private treaty transaction brokered by John Ryan of BDM Property. https://www.businesspost.ie/commercial-real-estate/suburban-off-market-sale-is-first-dublin-pub-deal-of-2026/

• McDonald’s marks a half-century in Ireland with plans to expand further: The fast-food giant continues its Irish expansion with a new drive-through restaurant nearing completion in New Ross https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-41780237.html

• Government has been asked to back Galway County Council to take over the former Shannon Oaks hotel in Portumna by CPO https://www.galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/dail-hears-demand-for-action-on-shannon-oaks-in-portumna-212243

• ‘Superb headquarters’ for a company comes on the market in Limerick: Gordon Kearney, of Rooney Auctioneers, is guiding at €300,000 https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/limerick-live/1997679/superb-headquarters-for-a-company-comes-on-the-market-in-limerick.html

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

•  Ireland’s Start-up Surge Meets Housing and Infrastructure Demand: Ireland’s start-up engine is accelerating, and the built environment is directly in the slipstream https://prop-tech.ie/irelands-start-up-surge-meets-housing-and-infrastructure-demand/

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

• Seán Sweeney, MetroLink’s programme director, hits out at Ireland’s planning system:  “What’s a democracy? Will of the majority? At the moment we’ve got a ­judicial review where one person can stop the will of Ireland from happening. Is that democratic? It doesn’t feel like it to me” https://www.thetimes.com/world/ireland-world/article/sean-sweeney-metrolink-interview-planning-democracy-objections-cb32vm85k

• Plan to slash legal costs in environmental cases is against EU law, say lawyers: Plan to slash fees payable in environmental cases is contrary to EU law and Constitution, solicitors warn https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/22/legal-fee-cuts-will-harm-environmental-protection-and-encourage-lay-litigants-say-lawyers/

• MetroLink boss Sean Sweeney on planning issues and how Trump has got in the way of the major infrastructure project: New timelines and costs for the project will be shared with the Government this March, he said https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/metrolink-boss-sean-sweeney-on-planning-issues-and-how-trump-has-got-in-the-way-of-the-major-infrastructure-project/a155283695.html

• Clearly they didn’t visit Galway: ‘Dublin is the third most congested city and sixth slowest city in the world for traffic’ https://www.thejournal.ie/dublin-traffic-congestion-tomtom-research-6933461-Jan2026/

• €11m-plus for Galway city’s transport projects https://connachttribune.ie/e11m-plus-for-galway-citys-transport-projects/

• Government clears €250m upgrade of Limerick wastewater plant: Bunlicky project set to unlock housing and economic growth across the mid-west

Government clears €250m upgrade of Limerick wastewater plant

• 2026 set to be record year for Irish wind as 3.6GW pipeline underpins energy independence push: New industry strategy points to rapid onshore and offshore build-out to 2030, but grid and planning capacity remain critical https://breakingground.news/2026-set-to-be-record-year-for-irish-wind-as-3-6gw-pipeline-underpins-energy-independence-push/

• Roadmap to Irish ‘electrostate’ set to be launched: Wind Energy Ireland will launch what it describes as a roadmap to an Irish ‘electrostate’ at its 2026 Annual Conference in Dublin. Chief Executive Noel Cunniffe defined an ‘electrostate’ as a country powered by secure, affordable, home-grown clean electricity with cleaner air, warmer homes, and electric grid infrastructure that is built to last. https://www.rte.ie/news/environment/2026/0121/1554197-wind-energy-ireland/

• Walking and Cycling in 2026 – What Ireland’s €360 Million Funding Will Deliver: Ministers have confirmed €360 million in capital funding for active travel and greenways in 2026, aimed at expanding safer walking and cycling options across Ireland, in both urban and rural areas https://publicconsultation.ie/walking-and-cycling-in-2026-what-irelands-e360-million-funding-will-deliver/

• Louth County Council has given Lightsource Renewable Energy Ireland Ltd, which is owned by British multinational oil and gas company, BP, the go ahead for a solar farm on a site of c.108.6 ha (268.4 acres), just under five kilometres from Ardee https://www.ireland-live.ie/news/louth-live/1998190/268-acre-solar-farm-in-mid-louth-gets-go-ahead-in-spite-of-objections.html

• Oral hearing into a proposed wind farm in Co Clare has been given conflicting evidence as to the likely impact the development would have on air traffic management https://www.rte.ie/news/munster/2026/0122/1554580-wind-farm-clare/

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

• Mace name set to disappear from contracting under rebrand as Consult sale to Goldman Sachs due to complete next month https://www.building.co.uk/news/mace-name-set-to-disappear-from-contracting-under-rebrand-as-consult-sale-to-goldman-sachs-due-to-complete-next-month/5140242.article

• The Cotswolds has become a global property brand: As historic rectories and manor houses attract Hollywood buyers, more agents compete for fees https://www.ft.com/content/2c74d006-5bef-4ee7-89c1-b808caa28e96