ELEVEN long-derelict housing units in Patrickswell must be prioritised for redevelopment in 2026 to deliver affordable purchase homes for the local community.
That’s the view of Fine Gael councillor and Patrickswell native Dan McSweeney, who told the Limerick Post that these properties, vacant for more than 15 years, have significantly detracted from the appearance of the village.
In recent years, Limerick City and County Council acquired the units under the Derelict Sites Act, and they are now fully in the local authority’s ownership.
Cllr McSweeney has written to the Director General of the Council, Dr Pat Daly, urging that the site be now utilised to deliver affordable purchase housing under the Starter Home Purchase Scheme. This scheme allows homes to be sold to first-time buyers at a reduced cost, with the local authority taking an equity share to support affordability.
“These housing units are located in the centre of Patrickswell and have remained vacant for far too long. I firmly believe that during 2026 we must see action from Limerick City and County Council to bring these homes out of dereliction and, more importantly, return them to the housing market under the Starter Home Purchase Scheme,” Cllr McSweeney commented.
“Delivering these units through this scheme would allow Limerick City and County Council to take an equity share, helping to make these homes genuinely affordable for individuals and families who are currently locked out of the housing market in Patrickswell and the surrounding areas.”
The City West representative went on to say that he will continue to work closely with the Council over the coming months to push these units forward and ensure the delivery of much-needed affordable housing.
“I will also be reviewing additional solutions to deliver further affordable homes within Patrickswell and across the wider city and county.”
There was no response from Limerick City and County Council at the time of going to print.
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