The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD, has launched the next call for Expressions of Interest under the Croí Cónaithe Cities Scheme.

This follows strong progress to date, with contracts already signed for 2,470 apartments, as well as three additional projects approved, delivering almost 200 more units.

This momentum highlights the scheme’s effectiveness in unlocking apartment development and opening up real pathways to homeownership in our cities. Minister Browne made the announcement at the Lightburne apartment development in Dublin 18. These are the latest apartments supported by the scheme now being offered for sale in Dublin.

The Croí Cónaithe Cities Scheme is a fund to support the building of apartments for sale to owner-occupiers. It aims to bridge the current viability gap between the cost of building apartments and the market sale price in five cities, Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford.  

Minister Browne said: “Encouragingly, there has already been exceptionally strong demand from homebuyers for these apartments, with units both at this development and others selling rapidly.

“This targeted measure is supporting the delivery of apartments that would not otherwise have been built, creating real opportunities for people to buy a home in our cities. This Government is focused on increasing the supply of urban, owner-occupier apartments and ensuring that those who aspire to homeownership have greater choice and access in our urban centres.”

“It’s clear the scheme is now gaining real traction, with sustained engagement from the development sector and it is proving to be another effective tool in accelerating the delivery of much-needed housing. This is why I am also particularly pleased to announce that a further call for expressions of interest will open in early July.”

The scheme is administered by the Housing Agency, whose Chief Executive, Martin Whelan, said: “The Croí Cónaithe (Cities) Scheme is helping to unlock the delivery of new homes that might otherwise not have proceeded due to viability challenges. Through the scheme, we have now supported the construction of more than 2,000 apartments for sale to owner-occupiers, demonstrating its growing impact in bringing forward much-needed housing supply. Importantly, this is also helping to unlock further residential development, giving confidence to the market and supporting the delivery of additional homes in our cities.

“We are seeing increasing momentum in the development of housing in well-connected urban locations, creating opportunities for first-time buyers and other owner-occupiers to purchase homes close to public transport, employment centres and essential amenities.

“I would like to congratulate Park Developments on reaching this significant milestone with the Lightburne development. This project will deliver 230 new homes later this year and represents an important contribution to meeting housing demand while supporting the continued growth and vitality of our urban communities.”

Follow Irish building magazine on LinkedIn for the latest news and updates.