Sunday Property Round-Up July 17th, 2022

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

Before we get stuck into the general property news of the week, below are the local and international stories that might be of particular interest: 

• Property District West: All PR and communications (ghostwriting, social media management, public consultation and community engagement for placemaking) available through Irish from our Galway base in An Cheathrú Rua. Email brid@propertydistrict.ie for further information.

• An Bord Pleanála: State has no power to overturn Paul Hyde’s planning rulings  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40914962.html Also: An Bord Pleanála review must report quickly to restore public confidence, say politicians: Former deputy chairman denies wrongdoing as conflict-of-interest inquiry focuses on his personal investments  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/07/11/an-bord-pleanala-review-must-report-quickly-to-restore-public-confidence-say-politicians/

• Cause for objection: What is going on at Bord Pleanála, and what happens next? The shock resignation of planning board deputy chairman Paul Hyde may only be the beginning of the reckoning being faced by the beleaguered state body after last week’s three-hour PAC grilling of its chairman, which focused on governance issues, transparency and alleged conflicts of interest https://www.businesspost.ie/news-focus/cause-for-objection-what-is-going-on-at-bord-pleanala-and-what-happens-next/

• Government under fire for rushing through planning law with limited time for debate: Just 2.5 hours are allocated to debate nearly 50 pages of new amendments which have been added to the original 18-page bill https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/politics/arid-40915802.html

• Repairing construction defects could cost State €2.8bn as over 100,000 homes found to be affected: Failings present in up to 80% of apartments and duplexes built between 1991 and 2013  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/07/15/repairing-construction-defects-could-cost-state-28bn-as-over-100000-homes-found-to-be-affected/

• Avalanche of mica damage writs just the ‘first wave’, says action group: Owners of crumbling homes say €2.7bn State scheme won’t cover the full costs of fixing them  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/avalanche-of-mica-damage-writs-just-the-first-wave-says-action-group-41845441.html

• State has role to play in fixing construction defects, but so does industry, McGrath says: ‘It cannot solely fall to the state and the industry will have to step up to the mark’, Minister says  https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2022/07/16/state-has-role-to-play-in-fixing-construction-defects-but-so-does-industry-mcgrath-says/

• This new scheme has the potential to really help homebuyers and regional towns and villages with grants of up to €50,000 to bring vacant and derelict homes back into use 👏 Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund Scheme  https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/c2183-croi-conaithe-towns-fund/

• Mass sale of vacant properties on the cards as new tax looms: The platform Iamsold is advising property owners to look towards sale by auction as a faster, more secure means of offloading their properties https://www.businesspost.ie/property/mass-sale-of-vacant-properties-on-the-cards-as-new-tax-looms/

• Bar manager has more than €7m property investment debt written off: Oliver Flynn, who manages Wright’s Bar Group in Swords, will pay unsecured creditors €9,800 as part of personal insolvency arrangement  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/07/12/bar-manager-writes-off-more-than-7m-debt-in-court-backed-scheme/

• Mayo solicitor struck off for misconduct in land sale loses appeal  https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/mayo-solicitor-struck-off-for-misconduct-in-land-sale-loses-appeal-1334222.html

• Wicklow carpenter avoids jail for deception over false insurance certificates  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/wicklow-carpenter-avoids-jail-for-deception-over-false-insurance-certificates-1334079.html

• Householders ‘ignoring leaking septic tanks as they can’t afford to replace them’  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-40916396.html

• The magnificent Woodlock Hall Library, delivered by McKeon Group, features as a standout project in the Irish issue of Architects Journal this month  https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/opinion/theres-a-cornucopia-of-stand-out-practices-and-work-in-our-irish-issue-needs-links 

• CAO 2022: Surge in applications for environment, architecture and arts  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2022/07/12/cao-2022-surge-in-applications-for-environment-architecture-and-arts/

• Ireland’s first ‘rammed earth’ public building will be built in a Cork park this autumn  https://www.yaycork.ie/irelands-first-rammed-earth-public-building-will-be-built-in-a-cork-park-this-autumn/

• Local Property Tax database will be used to target TV licence fee evaders  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/local-property-tax-database-will-be-used-to-target-tv-licence-fee-evaders-41835570.html

• Is Metaverse Really the End of Barriers for Architects?  https://www.archdaily.com/984891/is-metaverse-really-the-end-of-barriers-for-architects

• Glenveagh Properties co-founder Justin Bickle dies aged 51: Self-made businessman excelled in the worlds of law, private equity and property development https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/07/14/glenveagh-properties-co-founder-justin-bickle-dies-aged-51/ 

If you missed last week’s round-up, you can catch up here: https://propertydistrict.ie/sunday-roundup/

As always, you might let me know if I have missed out on any relevant property news by emailing  carol@propertydistrict.ie.

(Apologies in advance for any typos, it’s difficult to get good help on a Sunday. Also, I use voice to text dictation so just sound out anything that really doesn’t make sense in a strong rural accent and that should help!)

SUNDAY LISTEN

What started as #PropertyMatters, a single 60-minute show on Dublin South FM 93.9FM every Tuesday night, has now evolved into an online station hosting the very best construction, urban planning, property and proptech radio shows and podcasts from around the world. Our new website – produced by Hear Me Roar Media – offers audiences live and recorded access to global built environment content. To have your industry podcast included in the iPropertyRadio line-up, or to contribute as a guest on any of our shows, email the iPropertyRadio team at info@propertydistrict.ie

On iPropertyRadio.com this week…

Part 1: Embracing digital tools for estate agency, with Lorraine Mulligan, RE/MAX Results – Team Lorraine Mulligan Also, how is the property market in the Greater Dublin Area faring?

Watch back: https://youtu.be/Eah4uL3dN2U  

Part 2: Construction costs inflation and reasons to be (somewhat) optimistic, with Paul Mitchell of Mitchell McDermott

Watch back: https://youtu.be/AcaC8fFz-vA  

Part 3: Best practice in construction pre-quals, bids and tenders with Dynamic Consulting – Ireland‘s Karen Muldowney

Watch back: https://youtu.be/xcFzNuIPIDI  

Produced by Bríd Molloy and Hear Me Roar Media

Listen back to all shows at www.ipropertyradio.com  

PLACEMAKING

OPEN PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• Places for People – a new film marking the launch of the National Policy on Architecture is available on the RIAI website https://ireland.architecturediary.org/event/places-for-people/

• URBAN PLANNING: Public consultation opens on €10m Balbriggan parkland redevelopment: Fingal Co Council has launched a plan to revitalise the centre of the north Co Dublin town with linear park, multi-use plaza area and canalisation of the river Bracken https://www.businesspost.ie/property/public-consultation-opens-on-e10m-balbriggan-parkland-redevelopment/

• Public transport drives Dublin’s CBD evolution: BNP Paribas’s latest report shows commercial hubs springing up in the wake of light-rail infrastructure, boosting rental values, writes Keith O’Neill https://www.businesspost.ie/property/public-transport-drives-dublins-cbd-evolution/

• Public lido and training centre worth €25m planned to replace whitewater rafting scheme: New project would include a 50-metre, five-lane lap pool, sauna and changing areas  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/07/12/public-lido-and-training-centre-worth-25m-planned-to-replace-whitewater-rafting-scheme/

• Five city council housing schemes delivering more than 250 new homes go to public consultation: The details of the schemes have just been published with the units set to be developed at Lehenaghmore, Glanmire, Douglas, Ballyvolane and Kinsale Road.  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40918097.html

• ‘No farmer wants it going through their own property’: Cork farmers raise concerns over new greenway plans  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-40919123.html

• Cork to Passage West greenway reopens after upgrading works: Cycling path underwent a year of improvement works to widen route, make it more accessible and install lighting  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2022/07/16/cork-to-passage-west-greenway-reopens-after-upgrading-works/

• Our Rural Future: Minister Humphreys announces first tranche of properties to be re-developed for community use  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/df515-our-rural-future-minister-humphreys-announces-first-tranche-of-properties-to-be-re-developed-for-community-use/

• The quality of life in Castlerea – The cheapest property in Ireland  https://www.newstalk.com/podcasts/highlights-from-the-pat-kenny-show/the-quality-of-life-in-castlerea-the-cheapest-property-in-ireland

• Mutton Island ‘can handle growth’ of Galway City over the next five years  https://connachttribune.ie/mutton-island-can-handle-growth-of-galway-city-over-the-next-five-years/amp/

• Atkins to redevelop Galway harbour into offshore wind farm  https://www.globalconstructionreview.com/atkins-to-redevelop-galway-harbour-into-offshore-wind-farm/

• Planning permission sought for glamping site in Ballinode  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/planning-permission-sought-for-glamping-site-in-ballinode-198215

• Locals object to converting €1 million Sinead O’Connor home into apartments  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/locals-object-to-converting-e1-million-sinead-oconnor-home-into-apartments-1334321.html

• Permission granted for glamping pods in town popular with Limerick families  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/local-news/858713/permission-granted-for-glamping-pods-in-town-popular-with-limerick-families.html

• Nearly half of septic tanks inspected in Longford falling below required standards  https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/home/854219/nearly-half-of-septic-tanks-inspected-in-longford-falling-below-required-standards.html

• The first major urban regeneration scheme in Donegal will be officially unveiled shortly.  https://www.donegaldaily.com/2022/07/10/church-lane-initiative-launch-to-be-proceeded-by-dereliction-conference/amp/

• 5 approaches to a net zero strategy that communities can start right now  https://www.bdcnetwork.com/blog/5-approaches-net-zero-strategy-communities-can-start-right-now

• Interstitial Spaces and Public Life, the Overlooked Interventions that Weave our Built Environment  https://www.archdaily.com/984818/interstitial-spaces-and-public-life-the-overlooked-interventions-that-weave-our-built-environment

*PLACEengage: The future of speedy, successful placemaking for property developers is here – Property developers and project owners ready Public Consultation are encouraged to contact the PLACEengage team for full details* https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rdwwKy4MA_4 

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

• Number of house construction starts down 30% in June: Number of commencement notices in June 2021 includes backlog caused by Covid restrictions, Department of Housing says https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/07/15/number-of-houses-on-which-construction-began-down-30-in-june/

• Minister McGrath publishes the Build 2022 repost https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/1cb01-minister-mcgrath-publishes-the-build-2022-report/

• Construction slowdown from rising costs would be disastrous for housing  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/construction-slowdown-from-rising-costs-would-be-disastrous-for-housing-41838051.html

• Innovation is key to help an industry now facing into a ‘perfect storm’  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/innovation-is-key-to-help-an-industry-now-facing-into-a-perfect-storm-41838334.html

• Construction activity contracts for first time since April 2021 https://www.irishrealestate.news/construction-activity-contracts-for-first-time-since-april-2021/ 

• Cost pressures heap pain on Ireland’s construction sector  https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/financial/cost-pressures-heap-pain-on-irelands-construction-sector-14-07-2022/

• Construction industry shrinks along with housing as costs flare: Previously agreed projects have been postponed, according to purchasing managers who work in the industry  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-40915037.html

• Second quarter sees rise in land sales following slow start: Total development land volumes for the first half of the year came in at €275m.  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-40915289.html

• Oaktree-backed investor calls off €600m Irish property sale https://reactnews.com/article/oaktree-backed-investor-calls-off-e600m-irish-property-sale/

• Tetrarch lines up €50m retirement community  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/tetrarch-lines-up-50m-retirement-community-x7m66p9zn

• Dublin developer suffers double blow with two fast track schemes refused: https://www.breakingnews.ie/business/dublin-developer-suffers-double-blow-with-two-fast-track-schemes-refused-1334254.html

• Plan to build almost 4,000 social and affordable homes across Cork over next 5 years: Cork County Council says a mix of housing types will be  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/property/plan-build-almost-4000-social-24474254

• Plans for major hotel and housing development in Cork City put on hold: The project, located on the Kinsale Road, has faced objections from an adjoining business owner and Transport Infrastructure Ireland  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-40917134.html

• Permission granted for 12-story apartment block in Cork despite Government objection  https://www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/permission-granted-for-12-story-apartment-block-in-cork-despite-government-concern-1336264.html

• Hundreds of apartments with creche get Cork City Council green light: The residential scheme planned for Mahon has been approved by the council  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/property/hundreds-apartments-creche-cork-city-24499818

• West Cork brothers sell UK construction empire in deals worth over €500m: The low-profile brothers left West Cork for manchester in the ’80s  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/property/west-cork-brothers-sell-uk-24447878

• Huge Irish Water project ‘unlocks new housing developments’ for East Cork: The works are aimed to serve 100s of new homes – but it will involve digging up 6 km of access roads in the area  https://www.corkbeo.ie/news/local-news/huge-irish-water-project-unlocks-24474565

• Major multinational considering IDA site in Oranmore  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/major-multinational-considering-ida-site-in-oranmore/

• New 240-unit housing development to be built in Kilkenny  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/property/857701/breaking-new-240-unit-housing-development-to-be-built-in-kilkenny.html

• Diageo to build new €200m brewery in Kildare  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2022/0714/1310303-diageo-to-build-new-200m-brewery-in-kildare/

• Eyre Street, Newbridge, site with planning for townhouses  https://www.kildarenow.com/news/home/861988/kildare-property-watch-eyre-street-newbridge-site-with-planning-for-townhouses.html

• Plans lodged for new local 212 home housing development  https://www.shannonside.ie/news/plans-lodged-for-new-local-212-home-housing-development-207459

• Sale of McWilliams Group site clears way for major logistics hub in Dundalk. Purchaser of 27-acre holding at Dundalk North Business Park has applied for planning permission to develop 400,000sq ft warehouse with parking for 50 HGVs  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/07/13/sale-by-mcwilliams-site-clears-way-for-major-logistics-hub-in-dundalk/

• Plans to demolish Longford hotel and pave way for retail and housing development  https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/home/858166/plans-to-demolish-longford-hotel-and-pave-way-for-retail-and-housing-development.html

• Permission granted to convert Ballyconnell House into six-unit apartment building  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/permission-granted-to-convert-ballyconnell-house-into-six-unit-apartment-building-198296

• IDA to purchase unused Kerry Technology Park lands  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/news/ida-to-purchase-unused-kerry-technology-park-lands-41833955.html

• Two Northern Ireland firms fined over death of roofer  https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/health-and-safety/two-northern-ireland-firms-fined-over-death-of-roofer-11-07-2022/

• Grafton Group’s first half revenue up 13.9%  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2022/0712/1309696-grafton-groups-first-half-revenue-up-13-9/ Also: Analysts to review next year’s forecasts for Grafton Group: The hardware business’s revenue for the first half of 2022 is up but the general macro-economic situation is uncertain, according to Davy Stockbrokers  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/analysts-to-review-next-years-forecasts-for-grafton-group/ 

• CRH acquires US railing company for almost €1.9bn: Irish building materials giant first announced the deal for Ohio-based Barrette Outdoor Living in June  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/07/11/crh-acquires-us-railing-company-for-almost-19bn/

• Indian construction giant plans to build projects worth €180m: Shapoorji Pallonji’s country head for Ireland and UK says a number of projects have already commenced, adding: ‘We’re here and we’re ready to spend money in Ireland’  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/indian-construction-giant-plans-to-build-projects-worth-e180m/

• Exclusive building study: Dublin’s ESB Headquarters by Grafton Architects: With their new headquarters for Irish state energy company ESB, Grafton Architects and O’Mahony Pike have restored the Georgian line of Dublin’s Fitzwilliam Street Lower, a bone of contention between conservationists and the client for 50 years https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/buildings/street-credibility-dublins-esb-headquarters-by-grafton

• Global supply crisis sees Combilift lose out on €50m sales: Monaghan forklift maker’s revenue will hit €350m this year, says CEO Martin McVicar  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/global-supply-crisis-sees-combilift-lose-out-on-50m-sales-41838204.html

PROPTECH, ESG, MMC & CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION

• Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2022 Irish technology providers for the built environment – From smart design and planning right through to the smart property transaction, where does your Irish-led or Ireland-based proptech  or MMC business sit?  Pease take five minutes to add or update your details to our internationally-shared listing here: SIGN UP HERE: *https://prop-tech.ie/register/ * and email product or service details to hello@prop-tech.ie

• The building site of the future… from design and production, right through to site management: 5G, BIM, big data, automation, artificial intelligence, drones, offsite construction, green, VR, AR, XR… what are we missing? 🔗https://prop-tech.ie 

• Developer Mulryan among backers of Irish start-up Noloco: The Ballymore Group founder joins Checkout.com chief executive Guillaume Pousaz in investing in the no-code platform https://www.businesspost.ie/tech/developer-mulryan-among-backers-of-irish-start-up-noloco/

• Exports from Irish companies supported by Enterprise Ireland (EI) rose by 12pc to a record €27.29bn last year.  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/exports-by-enterprise-ireland-backed-companies-rise-to-record-level-41832564.html But: EI start-ups find limited appetite for co-investment: Enterprise Ireland has made €90m in fresh capital available to boost funding  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/ei-start-ups-find-limited-appetite-for-co-investment-41835603.html

• Enterprise Ireland has invested €250,000 in SMART FLOW, a real-time intelligent water monitoring provider, helping with water usage reduction, while providing property protection from plumbing leaks- An #ESG essential solution for water sustainability… https://prop-tech.ie/enterprise-ireland-invests-e250000-in-water-sustainability-company-smart-flow/

• Proptech funding hits record high in H1 2022  https://placetech.net/news/proptech-funding-hits-record-high-in-h1-2022/amp/ 

• Pitching your startup? Here are the red flags that journalists see: “No, I will not join your content marketing team…” https://sifted.eu/articles/startup-red-flag-journalist/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&utm_campaign=content&utm_content=eleanor_warnock

• Iris, a construction device start-up, bagged the One to Watch award at the NUI Galway accelerator awards   https://www.siliconrepublic.com/start-ups/start100-accelerator-incubator-nui-galway-student-startup-awards 

• BuildingLink, a property management and resident engagement proptech with a base in Ireland, announced receiving a strategic growth investment from private equity firm Bregal Sagemount https://finledger.com/articles/sagemount-backs-buildinglink-to-fuel-scaling-efforts/

• The Hill Group has acquired Fusion Steel Framing Limited and its 80,000 sq ft advanced manufacturing facility in Northampton. https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2022/07/12/hill-group-buys-offsite-steel-frame-specialist/

• Contech leaders say convergence is driving a construction industry renaissance  https://www.constructiondive.com/spons/contech-leaders-say-convergence-is-driving-a-construction-industry-renaissa/626299/

• AI-ENABLED SMART HOME CAMERA CAPTURES VIDEO IN 2K, AND CAN EVEN RECOGNIZE FACES AND GESTURES  https://www.yankodesign.com/2022/07/10/ai-enabled-smart-home-camera-captures-video-in-2k-and-can-even-recognize-faces-and-gestures/

• JLL Leans Further Into ‘Exploding’ Office Proptech Space With New Deal  https://www.bisnow.com/national/news/technology/jll-leans-further-into-exploding-office-proptech-space-with-new-deal-113739

• London-based Lilo picks up €3 million to bring a touch of luxury to global fractional home ownership  https://www.eu-startups.com/2022/07/london-based-lilo-picks-up-e3-million-to-bring-a-touch-of-luxury-to-global-fractional-home-ownership/

• UAE-Based Proptech Startup Huspy Raises US$37 Million In One Of The MENA’s Largest Series A Funding Rounds: Huspy, a UAE-based proptech startup, has raised US$37 million in a round led by venture capital firm Sequoia Capital India.https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/431307

• When FinTech Converges With PropTech: A $52M Valuation Emerges For Stake Upon Its Close Of A $12M Series A  https://www.forbes.com/sites/amydobson/2022/07/12/when-fintech-converges-with-proptech-a-52m-valuation-emerges-for-stake-upon-its-close-of-a-12m-series-a/amp/

• A View From The Top: How One Woman of Influence Launched a Leading PropTech Firm: Fortress CEO Kerri Davis will discuss her unconventional career path – and how she built a leading proptech company – in this year’s Women of Influence conference.  https://www.globest.com/2022/07/14/a-view-from-the-top-how-one-woman-of-influence-launched-a-leading-proptech-firm/

• Australian Prop-Tech Platform Powers Up Showroom Solution  https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/articles/leading-australian-prop-tech-platform-powers-up-showroom-solution

• K2V2 Technologies Launches ‘BeyondWalls’, an integrated PropTech ecosystem for Real Estate in India  https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/k2v2-technologies-launches-beyondwalls-an-integrated-proptech-ecosystem-for-real-estate-in-india-892486529.html

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• Residential property prices up 14.4% in May, growth slows – CSO  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2022/0712/1309767-residential-property-prices-up-14-4-in-may-cso/

• Grants up to €50,000 to refurbish derelict and vacant regional homes: Fund for refurbishment is intended to support home ownership and tackle vacancy in regional towns and villages  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/07/14/grants-up-to-50000-to-refurbish-derelict-and-vacant-regional-homes/. 

• Mortgage rates fall in Ireland, bucking trend across the Eurozone  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/mortgage-rates-fall-in-ireland-bucking-trend-across-the-eurozone-41836740.html

• Unlocking the state’s new shared equity scheme: Following last week’s launch of the First Home scheme, real estate agency Auctioneera has prepared a guide and a useful calculator for first-time buyers looking to avail of it  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/unlocking-the-states-new-shared-equity-scheme/

• Central Bank study finds property tax can decrease market volatility: The Economic Letter stated that the introduction of a property tax can provide the Government with a stable source of revenue as it is less likely to be impacted by economic fluctuations https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-40917437.html

• Modular homes becoming increasingly popular  in Ireland https://www.shannonside.ie/news/roscommon-auctioneer-says-modular-homes-increasingly-popular-207287

• ‘Stark decline’ in availability of Hap properties, new report says: Simon Communities of Ireland report finds just 37 properties available across 16 areas  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/07/10/stark-decline-in-availability-of-hap-properties-new-report-says/

• State to sink another €450m into leasing of 1,000 social housing units: Taoiseach Micheál Martin has committed to phasing out the practice, which Eurostat said lined developers’ pockets but delivered no benefit to the state  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/state-to-sink-another-e450m-into-leasing-of-1000-social-housing-units/

• Stricter regulation of short-term letting companies agreed by Government: Under plans, it will be an offence to advertise properties without correct planning permission in rent pressure zones  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2022/07/10/stricter-regulation-of-short-term-letting-companies-agreed-by-government/

• Airbnb says new government rules banning rogue listings “won’t work”: The online accommodation platform says that it doesn’t know how to comply with legal changes that make it responsible for listings that are missing the correct planning permission.  https://m.independent.ie/business/technology/airbnb-says-new-government-rules-banning-rogue-listings-wont-work-41837997.html

• Catholic Church to cash in on property price boom by selling off empty parochial homes https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/catholic-church-to-cash-in-on-property-price-boom-by-selling-off-empty-parochial-homes-41831377.html

• Your guide to residences on sale around the country: Our pick of the properties you should be looking at this week  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/your-guide-to-residences-on-sale-around-the-country/

• Out of the dark, into the light: this refurbished period property in Dublin is on the market for €895,000: It took just a six-month renovation to turn three dingy pre-’63 apartments in the heart of Dublin’s ‘flatland’ into a bright, spacious family home  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/out-of-the-dark-into-the-light-632x3btt6

• New properties on the market in Co Cork, Co Galway, Co Kilkenny and Dublin: Anna Shelswell-White’s pick of the properties available to buy in Ireland this week  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/new-properties-on-the-market-in-co-cork-co-galway-co-kilkenny-and-dublin-mx3vdg5cj

• Town & Country: What will €360,000 buy in Dublin and Leitrim? Two homes, one price: A two-bedroom apartment in Kinsealy or a three-bedroom cottage in Castlegal  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2022/07/14/town-country-what-will-360000-buy-in-dublin-and-leitrim/

• Take 5: What will €350,000 buy in Scotland, Sweden, France, Italy and Glandore? A former watermill in Aspet, a period apartment in Edinburgh, a waterside cabin in Varmland or an unfinished four-bedroom house overlooking the water on Tralong Bay  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2022/07/15/take-5-what-will-350000-buy-in-scotland-sweden-france-italy-and-glandore/

• Tanya Sweeney found herself in the unenviable position of issuing a notice to quit just as she received one herself. Here, she investigates why owners like her are leaving the market and what it means for our housing supply  https://m.independent.ie/life/i-served-a-notice-to-quit-on-my-tenant-just-as-my-landlord-served-one-on-me-41842300.html

• Emer McLysaght: I’m a bestselling author but I’ll struggle to buy a house in Ireland: As a single woman on an average income the odds are not in my favour  https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2022/07/16/emer-mclysaght-im-a-bestselling-author-but-will-struggle-to-buy-a-house/

• Small kitchen ideas – 43 ways to make the most of your small space: Small kitchens are hardworking spaces calling for clever storage and design features with big impact  https://www.idealhome.co.uk/kitchen/kitchen-ideas/small-kitchen-ideas-87384

• Historic Irish Cottage in Ballysteen Village, South West Ireland, Limerick County https://ballysteencottageforsale.com/

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Commercial investment hits €1.2bn in second quarter: Colliers estate agency maintains a positive outlook for the Irish investment market, despite external uncertainties  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/commercial-investment-hits-e1-2bn-in-second-quarter/

• Dublin’s Central Plaza offering ‘best view’ of the city set to be leased: After Covid delays and an €8m-plus hike in construction costs, the building is to be handed over to tenants  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2022/07/13/dublins-central-plaza-offering-best-view-of-the-city-set-to-be-leased/

• European investor pays €65m for prime Dublin 2 office block: Luxembourg-based REInvest enters Irish market with deal for WeWork building at 5 Harcourt Road  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/07/13/european-investor-pays-65m-for-prime-dublin-2-office-block/

• JMK Group secures €70m refinance of Holiday Inn at Dublin Airport: Barings and Fairfield Real Estate Finance to act as senior and junior lenders respectively on four-year loan  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2022/07/13/jmk-group-secures-70m-refinance-of-holiday-inn-at-dublin-airport/

• Gannon seeking over €70m for car park at Dublin Airport  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/gannon-seeking-over-70m-for-car-park-at-dublin-airport-41838357.html

• Landmark Donnybrook pub on market, guided at €1.9m  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/landmark-donnybrook-pub-on-market-guided-at-19m-41838062.html

• North Dublin logistics site enjoys easy access to key arterial routes  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/north-dublin-logistics-site-enjoys-easy-access-to-key-arterial-routes-41838339.html

• Hamlet Hotels targeting 50 properties in the UK and Ireland  https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2022/07/17/hamlet-hotels-targeting-50-properties-in-the-uk-and-ireland/

• Former garda stations, banks and a courthouse chosen to become community centres and remote working hubs  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/former-garda-stations-banks-and-a-courthouse-chosen-to-become-community-centres-and-remote-working-hubs-41829636.html

• Sale of former garda stations put on hold, as officials consider using them as homes for Ukrainians  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/sale-of-former-garda-stations-put-on-hold-as-officials-consider-using-them-as-homes-for-ukrainians-41845645.html 

• Regional cities enjoy tight market for logistics premises: Economic growth and supply-chain problems have seen demand surge, raising prices for rental of facilities in Cork, Galway, Limerick and other urban centres  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/regional-cities-enjoy-tight-market-for-logistics-premises/

• Final offices at Penrose Dock in Cork docklands are reserved: The confirmed company occupiers at the complex include Qualcomm, Varonis, Grant Thornton, Cadence, Cloudera, Morgan McKinley, Matheson and Ibechttps://www.businesspost.ie/property/final-offices-at-penrose-dock-in-cork-docklands-are-reserved/

• Iconic Offices kickstart their Cork flexi-workplace venture with an eye to expansion: Navigation Square is their first location outside of Dublin but it won’t be their last  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-40917614.html Also: Iconic Offices drawn south by gravitational pull of cutting-edge Cork: Flexible office workspace provider has taken 1,300 sqm of Grade A office space at Navigation Square in Cork city’s central business district, in its first foray outside of Dublin https://www.businesspost.ie/property/iconic-offices-drawn-south-by-gravitational-pull-of-cutting-edge-cork/

• Diligent opens new European Hub at Bonham Quay  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/diligent-opens-new-european-hub-at-bonham-quay/

• Limerick Property Watch: Hartstonge Street building full of potential  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/857235/limerick-property-watch-hartstonge-street-building-full-of-potential.html

• Rackard’s of Killanne gets provisional thumbs up by judge as plans for reopening move a step closer  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/news/courts/rackards-of-killanne-gets-provisional-thumbs-up-by-judge-as-plans-for-reopening-move-a-step-closer-41835495.html

• Two businesses expanding to Strabane Business Park  https://highlandradio.com/2022/07/13/two-businesses-expanding-to-strabane-business-park/

• Barings and Fairfield Real Estate Finance (FREF) have provided a €70.1m investment facility to the JMK Group secured against a hotel in Ireland.  https://realassets.ipe.com/news/jmk-group-secures-70m-funding-from-barings-fref/10061028.article

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• After travelling the world, Aoife O’Sullivan and Julien Bailly saw the darker side of tourism and are developing an eco-hotel in Sri Lanka made from bamboo   https://www.southernstar.ie/life/were-building-a-hotel-with-a-solid-future-4245417

• From Brexit to Build Back Better: what is Johnson’s construction legacy?  https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/government/from-brexit-to-build-back-better-what-is-johnsons-construction-legacy-11-07-2022/

• Inside The Collapse Of Urban Splash And Sekisui’s Modular Housing Business  https://www.bisnow.com/birmingham/news/construction-development/urban-splash-ripples-113726

• Lego to cease Russian operations ‘indefinitely’ with 81 stores impacted: The company had already halted deliveries to Russia in March following the invasion of Ukraine.  https://www.thejournal.ie/lego-russia-5815317-Jul2022/

• Chicago’s buildings “still not as efficient as those built 130 years ago” says Energy Revolution curator  https://www.dezeen.com/2022/07/13/energy-revolution-chicago-architecture-doug-farr/

FACEBOOK GROUP FOR IRISH PROPERTY BUYERS & INVESTORS

Crowd-sourcing answers topical property questions:    

As many of you might know, my annual property book The Irish Property Buyers’ Handbook (since 2011) was rebranded in 2018 and now appears as part of The Property Insider series, published by Oak Tree Press, the first three titles are now published and available here: https://www.amazon.com/Carol-Tallon/

From 2020, the publishers and I wanted to ensure the content remains topical and we are now doing this by crowd-sourcing home buyer and investor queries, with crowd-sourced and editorial team answers. 

Join the Facebook Group here to contribute: https://www.facebook.com/groups/IrishPropertyBuyers/