Mayo information event on vacant properties to help tackle dereliction
Mayo County Council has announced an upcoming public information event to raise awareness of available grants and schemes for property owners and homeowners interested in revitalising vacant properties and improving energy performance.
The Castlebar Municipal District and Mayo County Council’s Vacant Homes Office, in conjunction with SEAI, will host this practical information evening on Wednesday, May 15, from 5.30 to 8.30 p.m. in Castlebar Scout Den & Community Centre, Lannagh Road, Castlebar (F23PF59).
This is a great opportunity for members of the public to get information at firsthand from those involved in the administration of the many grants, loans and schemes available, with attendees having the chance to:
•Learn about grants and schemes available for property owners interested in addressing vacancies and dereliction.
•Gain insights into energy-efficient practices and the benefits of retrofitting homes to improve energy performance.
•Connect with representatives from Mayo County Council, the Castlebar Municipal District, the Vacant Homes Office, and SEAI to receive one-to-one guidance and support.
Direct information will be available on the relevant grants and schemes administered by Mayo County Council, such as the Vacant Property Refurbishment Croi Conaithe Grant.
Since the inception of the grant in July 2022, Mayo County Council Vacant Homes Office has received and processed 495 applications from property owners of vacant and derelict properties in urban and rural settings throughout Mayo.
Tom Gilligan, director of services, Mayo County Council, said: “The grants and schemes that our Vacant Homes Office administer have real potential to change the landscape of our towns and rural communities.
"The grants support property owners to bring back much needed vacant and derelict properties into residential use.”
Deirdre Swords, vacant homes officer for Mayo County Council, said: “Part of my job is to ensure that as many people around the county are aware of the supports available to bring properties back into residential use. The options are varied and can suit people in all walks of life."
Equally important is the emphasis on energy efficiency and retrofitting homes to not only to reduce carbon emissions but also lower utility bills and make sustainable living more attainable for all.
Representatives from SEAI will be present on the evening to provide an overview of retrofit grants and share insights on energy-efficient practices and technologies.
"We are excited to host this informative evening to raise awareness of the supports available to bring vacant properties back into use and to improve the energy efficiency of people’s homes," said David Mellett, Head of the Castlebar MD.
"By collaborating with SEAI and our colleagues in the Vacant Homes Office, we hope to empower homeowners and property owners to make meaningful contributions to the sustainability and vibrancy of our communities."
The event is open to all members of the public, including property owners, homeowners, community leaders, and interested individuals.
There will be information stands from local based financial institutions and others including information on Local Authority Home loan, Mayo County Council Housing Adaption Grants, Mayo County Council Vacant Homes Office, Mayo County Council Planning Section, Derelict Sites, SEAI Retrofit Grants, One-Stop-Shop and the new Low-Cost Home Energy Upgrade Loan Scheme.
A presentation from guest speakers will take place at 5.30 p.m. and at 7 p.m., and members of the public will have an opportunity before and after the presentations to meet with speakers and to engage with those at the various information stands.