WEEKLY PROPERTY ROUND-UP FEBRUARY 26TH, 2023

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:

• From the strategic to the creative, Property District is Ireland’s leading communications agency for the planning, construction and property sectors. As a full-service communications agency, we specialise in helping your business create a dynamic brand, generate buzz around its projects, products and services, and we help you to attract new customers and team members. Our experienced team includes strategic marketers, PR/publicists, journalists, copywriters and social media experts who know what it takes to make sure your message is heard. We offer customised integrated tactics and creative campaigns, executing them with precision to ensure you stand out from the competition and achieve your goals. Email info@propertydistrict.ie to chat through some strategies for your business.

• The Economics Division of the Department of Finance has signalled that only radical government measures can fix the chronic shortfall of housing supply in Ireland.  https://businessplus.ie/news/housing-supply/

• Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien talks up progress in face of increased homelessness: Minister says he is optimistic about range of measures being rolled out, despite record homeless numbers https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2023/02/25/minister-for-housing-darragh-obrien-talks-up-progress-in-face-of-increased-homelessness/

• Any buildings we can get our hands on’: Ministers to discuss refugee accommodation crisis – The Cabinet Committee on Ukraine will also discuss a new communications plan for communities.  https://www.thejournal.ie/ukraine-cabinet-committee-6002831-Feb2023/

• Tax laws should be changed to encourage small landlords to retain properties, Government told: Focus Ireland and Chartered Accountants Ireland call for changes in effort to ease housing crisis https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/23/tax-laws-should-be-changed-to-encourage-small-landlords-to-retain-properties-government-told/

• Opposition bill calls for 12-month ban on evictions to cut homelessness  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/opposition-bill-calls-for-12-month-ban-on-evictions-to-cut-homelessness-1435830.html

• The bill proposing a 12 month ban on evictions reached the second stage of the Dáil when Junior Housing Minister Kieran O’Donnell forgot to oppose it.  https://www.hotpress.com/housing/eviction-ban-bill-passes-after-junior-minister-forgets-to-oppose-it-in-a-roo

• Eviction ban ‘didn’t work’ to curb homelessness, Taoiseach says, as Homelessness in Ireland hits another record high https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2023/02/25/eviction-ban-didnt-work-to-curb-homelessness-taoiseach-says/ Also; The State is trying to “get the balance right” as it considers whether or not to extend the current ban on no-fault evictions, Minister of State Jack Chambers has said.  https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2023/0225/1358878-eviction-ban-gov-latest/

• The new planning bill — forty shades of green or fifty shades of grey? Provisions in the bill which propose to make it more difficult to pursue judicial review of public authorities, if enacted, will mean those awaiting homes and critical infrastructure will suffer and it will have profound impacts on local environmental groups  https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/commentanalysis/arid-41076338.html

• Prediction new planning law will be ‘mired in legal challenge for next 10 years’ https://www.irishlegal.com/articles/prediction-new-planning-law-will-be-mired-in-legal-challenge-for-next-10-years

• David McWilliams: Land capture is a significant problem in this country  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2023/02/25/david-mcwilliams-land-capture-is-a-significant-problem-in-this-country/

• State launches green transport incentive scheme for workplaces: Businesses will get gold, silver and bronze ratings based on efforts to reduce staff driving to work  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/state-launches-green-transport-incentive-scheme-for-workplaces/

• Something has to give in ‘This Land of Saints and Scholars’: Our well-educated young people are streaming out the departure lounges in search of a better life abroad  https://www.echolive.ie/corkviews/arid-41079152.html

• Online Mayo auctioneering business is a ‘sold-out’ sign of the times  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/02/25/online-mayo-auctioneering-business-is-a-sold-out-sign-of-the-times/

• Small job should have large impact after renewal at Cork’s 57 Oliver Plunkett Street: Architect behind salvation of corner shop No 57 has larger projects in the wings, so is there a belated turning of the tide of upper floor dereliction? https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41079944.html

• Average house price in Northern Ireland now £175k: The average price for a house in Northern Ireland is £175,234, according to new figures just published. https://www.northernirelandworld.com/business/consumer/average-house-price-in-northern-ireland-now-ps175k-4035982

• Irish central banker defends runaway economic growth as ‘real’: Ireland’s GDP increase single-handedly prevented the eurozone economy from stagnating last quarter  https://www.ft.com/content/e1cfecd4-e429-4151-963e-0d172ed0e028

• Architect David Campion: ‘My biggest pet peeve? Clients who lack ambition’: Anchored in Barbados, the Dubliner has built an international architecture firm that straddles the Atlantic  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/17/david-campion-my-biggest-pet-peeve-clients-who-lack-ambition/

• Banshees of Inisherin: how location and language have set the scene for Ireland’s vibrant film industry  https://theconversation.com/banshees-of-inisherin-how-location-and-language-have-set-the-scene-for-irelands-vibrant-film-industry-199055

• Encouraging student entrepreneurs to start their own business: Enterprise Ireland  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/encouraging-student-entrepreneurs-to-start-their-own-business-42359266.html

• Ireland’s New Government Plane: Everything You Need To Know: The Irish government is looking to replace its VIP transport. So is it flying now, and what are some possible replacements? https://simpleflying.com/ireland-new-government-plane/

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 60-minute weekly show on Dublin South FM 93.9FM over 4 years ago, has now evolved into a global online station for the best construction, urban planning, property and proptech content. Check out our website, iPropertyRadio.com, brought to you by Hear Me Roar Media for live and recorded access to all the week’s built environment news.

Want to have your industry podcast included or be a guest on our shows? Reach out to us at hello@ipropertyradio.com. Last year, we hit a massive 7.5 million digital impressions across our brands and this figure is growing – Q4 2022/Q1 2023 we now have an  average of 765,876 digital impressions each month, not including radio listenership and website visits. Huge thanks to all of you for your continued support!

This week on iPropertyRadio…

*Unlocking potential homes across Ireland*

This week on ‘Property Matters’ on iPropertyRadio, host Carol Tallon is joined by Tom Gilligan, Director of Services Mayo County Council to discuss the lack of rental stock, the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant (Croi Conaithe (Towns) Fund Scheme and Mayo County Council’s Home Buyer’s Hero Matchmaking Pilot dedicated to bringing unused properties back into use.

Watch back and listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/property-matters/

---

*What’s unique about Siro’s offering to the construction industry?* 

On ‘Breaking Ground’ on iPropertyRadio.com this week, host Carol Tallon chats to Cian O’Mahony, SIRO Head of Operations and New Developments to discuss the full fibre network built on the ESB network and how this benefits homebuilders – from developers right through to self builders. We also discuss SIRO’s market research on consumer understanding of broadband, connectivity and smart devices in the home.

Watch back and listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/breaking-ground/

Produced by Hear Me Roar Media https://hearmeroarmedia.com

*iPropertyRadio is part of Ireland’s Property District: https://propertydistrict.ie

PLACEMAKING

OPEN PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• Digital Placemaking Tools for Public Consultation & Community Engagement | PLACEengage https://placeengage.com/digital-placemaking-tools-for-public-consultation-community-engagement/

• Delivering Ireland’s Greenways, as set out in the ‘Code of Best Practice National and Regional Greenways’ https://www.publicconsultation.ie/news/delivering-irelands-greenways

• Public transport Ireland: Big change coming for planning rail and bus journeys: TFI’s Real Time Ireland and Journey Planner apps will no longer be supported from tomorrow, February 22  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/public-transport-ireland-big-change-26296856.amp

• New €20million state-of-the art BusConnects plaza opens at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre: Six bus routes will terminate at the new hub outside Liffey Valley, which is good news for passengers  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/new-20million-state-art-busconnects-26280544

• Owner of Woodies DIY object to Dublin Metrolink over ‘unacceptable’ impact on business: It’s been argued that the proposed works will permanently damage trade and severely impact the customer experience at the store.  https://www.thejournal.ie/woodies-diy-object-dublin-metrolink-6000904-Feb2023/

• Protest art praised for highlighting housing dereliction in Phibsborough: Posters were stuck on the outside of an empty retail unit that advertised local derelict and vacant buildings  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/protest-art-praised-highlighting-housing-26284154

• Take back this city: ‘It’s rare to see musicians in Dublin city with a guitar on their back’: They might be frustrated by Dublin’s failings, but they are equally optimistic about how the city could be improved, five Dubliners give their views on how the capital can fulfil its potential https://www.businesspost.ie/life-arts/take-back-this-city-its-rare-to-see-musicians-in-dublin-city-with-a-guitar-on-their-back-sunil/ 
• Fingal Green Party reps welcome announcement of major investment in Fingal Coastal Way  https://dublinpeople.com/news/northsideeast/articles/2023/02/20/46436-3/

• Cork city voted number one small European city for economic potential by Financial Times: Cork City was also voted second overall across various categories and fourth for business friendliness in the annual FT results that were recently published  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41079593.html

• ‘Bike boxes’ installed on Cork streets: Units have been installed on St Patrick’s Street and Grand Parade and it is understood they will be made available to businesses which are involved in an ongoing cargo bike trial project in the city https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41079599.html

• Meeting to be held on proposed windfarm in rural Kilkenny  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/local-news/1045668/meeting-to-be-held-on-proposed-windfarm-in-rural-kilkenny.html

• Construction to begin on new outpatient building at Merlin Park Hospital  https://connachttribune.ie/construction-to-begin-on-new-outpatient-building-at-merlin-park-hospital/amp/

• Fáilte Ireland to focus on boosting Galway tourism as a key destination along Wild Atlantic Way  https://connachttribune.ie/failte-ireland-to-focus-on-boosting-galway-tourism-as-a-key-destination-along-wild-atlantic-way/amp/

• Islands of Ireland: A deserted Irish island with beaches to die for: After clocking up more than 500 visits to Irish islands, Dan MacCarthy reckons he’s found one of the most attractive islands in the country  https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/outdoors/arid-41076722.html

• €3.4 million to develop Limerick greenway network  https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/02/20/e3-4-million-to-develop-limerick-greenway-network/

• Hidden heritage gems in the heart of Kilkenny to receive a new lease of life  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/kilkenny-city/1042181/hidden-heritage-gems-in-the-heart-of-kilkenny-to-receive-a-new-lease-of-life.html

• Once in a generation opportunity for Kilkenny communities with South East Greenway  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/south-kilkenny/1043766/once-in-a-generation-opportunity-for-kilkenny-communities-with-south-east-greenway.html

• Kildare Co Council asked to extend planning permission for almost 500 homes with cafe and gym  https://www.leinsterleader.ie/news/home/1045229/kildare-co-council-asked-to-extend-planning-permission-for-almost-500-homes-with-cafe-and-gym.html

• €2.1m In Funding Allocated Towards Greenway Projects In Clare https://www.clare.fm/news/e2-1m-funding-allocated-towards-greenway-projects-clare/

• Redevelopment of busiest library in Tipperary will cost €10 million: New building at Mick Delahunty Square in Clonmel will occupy a space covering 2,000 square metres  https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/home/1043524/redevelopment-of-busiest-library-in-tipperary-will-cost-10-million.html

• Wexford County Council provide update on Adoration Convent student accommodation plan https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/news/wexford-county-council-provide-update-on-adoration-convent-student-accommodation-plan-42350855.html

• Monck Street in Wexford will have an all-weather roof in time for the June bank holiday weekend  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/news/monck-street-in-wexford-will-have-an-all-weather-roof-in-time-for-the-june-bank-holiday-weekend-42358363.html

• Kerry community meeting a brick wall as they try to buy an historic building: Ballylongford Enterprise Association members say ‘it’s a disgrace’ they can’t find out who owns old building they hope to convert for community use  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/kerryman/news/kerry-community-meeting-a-brick-wall-as-they-try-to-buy-an-historic-building-42347235.html

• London couple appointed Great Blasket Island caretakers for 6 months: Couple from Cork and London offered highly coveted role for six months, beating thousands of other applicants.  https://www.irishcentral.com/travel/emily-campbell-daniel-regan-great-blasket-island

• Old studio building brings a new lease of life to Castlebar: Owners of Castle Books have the past firmly at heart, with their eyes on the future as their new venture blossoms  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/interiors/2023/02/04/brought-to-book-old-studio-building-brings-a-new-lease-of-life-to-castlebar/

• Public consultations to take place on N17 Knock to Collooney project  https://www.oceanfm.ie/2023/02/21/public-consultations-to-take-place-on-n17-knock-to-collooney-project/

• Local history: Almost naked, perishing creatures congregated on streets of north Mayo town  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/02/25/local-history-almost-naked-perishing-creatures-congregated-on-streets-of-north-mayo-town/

• Street Wise Athlone – Cornamagh  https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2023/02/24/street-wise-athlone-cornamagh/

• Pet escape: could Enniskillen be Ireland’s dog-friendliest town? “As well as being able to stay in my lodge, Vipp also enjoys the novelty of joining me for dinner in the hotel with dogs permitted to dine in the lounge which extends beyond the restaurant.”  https://www.irishexaminer.com/lifestyle/travel/arid-41079344.html

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

• Property investors predicted to be ‘cautious’ despite construction inflation easing: Building tender prices have surged by 26 per cent over the last two years https://www.businesspost.ie/news/property-investors-predicted-to-be-cautious-despite-construction-inflation-easing/

• Housing starts rise in January despite increase in construction costs: Commencement notices for the construction of 2,108 new residential homes nationally were received last month  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2023/02/23/housing-starts-rise-in-january-despite-increase-in-construction-costs/

• Price of builders’ raw materials to jump by 10% in Ireland: CRH leads hike in costs of concrete, blocks and aggregate on Wednesday  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/price-of-builders-raw-materials-to-jump-by-10-in-ireland-tn5vnx68k

• More ESB staff to face action over allegations of corrupt payments: State-owned electricity company has contacted employees to signal its intention to issue legal proceedings over allegations that they sought corrupt payments from developers to speed up electrical work on building sites https://www.businesspost.ie/news/more-esb-staff-to-face-action-over-allegations-of-corrupt-payments/

• More than €77k salary needed to recruit more surveyors and address housing crisis: A new report indicates that to keep up with housing demands, the country will need to treble the number of building surveying professionals  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/comment-more-than-e77k-salary-needed-to-recruit-more-surveyors-and-address-housing-crisis/

• Lobby groups warn inaccurate population forecasts jeopardise housing targets: Construction Industry Federation says Kildare and Wicklow local authorities’ underestimates of population growth scupper delivery of homes  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/lobby-groups-warn-inaccurate-population-forecasts-jeopardise-housing-targets/

• Regulator contacts planning body over fire safety appeals: The Office of the Planning Regulator has reached out to An Bord Pleanála over the very high rate of successful appeals by developers to overturn fire safety cert conditions  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/regulator-contacts-planning-body-over-fire-safety-appeals/

• John Walsh: To solve the housing crisis, we need realistic conversations on funding: Until we figure out who exactly will fund the construction of the thousands of homes we desperately need, we are going nowhere  https://www.businesspost.ie/analysis-opinion/john-walsh-to-solve-the-housing-crisis-we-need-realistic-conversations-on-funding/

• Councillors to urge Oireachtas not to ‘diminish democracy’ in new planning Bill: Bill could erode local authority powers, councillors’ representative body will tell Oireachtas housing committee  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/02/21/councillors-to-urge-oireachtas-not-to-diminish-democracy-in-new-planning-bill/

• State’s housebuilding numbers still do not add up: We are incapable of accurately counting our housing output with a variance between methods of 6,100 for 2022  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2023/02/22/states-housebuilding-numbers-still-do-not-add-up/

• Event Sets Out Ways To Accelerate National Housing Construction  https://www.constructionireland.ie/construction-news/294467/event-sets-out-ways-to-accelerate-national-housing-construction

• Sod turned on major new road development in Drogheda  https://amp.rte.ie/amp/1358444/

• More than 40 modular homes like those earmarked for Rathdowney for the Ukrainian refugees could end up being shipped back to Ukraine after the war ends, according to the State architect from the Office of Public Works.  https://www.leinsterexpress.ie/news/local-news/1042681/modular-houses-for-ukrainians-in-laois-could-end-up-in-ukraine.html

• Fingal County Council has stated that it is not satisfied Amazon Web Services (AWS) has fully demonstrated that its plan to build three data centres in north Dublin accords with revised Government policy on data centres.  https://m.independent.ie/business/fingal-council-questions-amazons-data-centre-plans-42351420.html

• Luxury Dublin apartment scheme gets greenlight for rooftop swimming pool: The rooftop swimming pool would have fabulous panoramic views of the city and Dublin Bay following the completion of the apartments  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/property/luxury-dublin-apartment-scheme-gets-26308790.amp

• Affordable homes built on site of former Chief Justice’s house: Whinsfield House in Sandyford, sold by Susan Denham for €3.5 million in 2016, has been demolished to make way for 65 social housing apartments  https://www.businesspost.ie/politics/affordable-homes-built-on-site-of-former-chief-justices-house/

• Prospects to develop 67 units on south Dublin property  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/prospects-to-develop-67-units-on-south-dublin-property-42355175.html

• UPGRADE works to the Blessington Wastewater Treatment Plant are now complete, increasing the capacity of the plant to serve a population equivalent of 9,000 in a town of just over 4,000 people.  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/news/significant-upgrade-to-blessington-wastewater-treatment-plant-now-complete-42350579.html

• Developers appeal against refusal of planning for Bessborough apartments https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41076782.html

• Residents appeal over apartments green light   https://connachttribune.ie/residents-appeal-over-apartments-green-light/

• Appeal to An Bord Pleanala over refusal of apartment block at Seamus Quirke Road  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/appeal-to-an-bord-pleanala-over-refusal-of-apartment-block-at-seamus-quirke-road/

• Housing Minister issues draft directions to change City Development Plan  https://www.galwaydaily.com/news/housing-minister-issues-draft-directions-to-change-city-development-plan/

• An Bord Pleanála gives the green light for large new hotel in Kilkenny  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/kilkenny-city/1041386/breaking-an-bord-pleanala-gives-the-green-light-for-large-new-hotel-in-kilkenny.html

• Refusal for Carlow estate development appealed to An Bord Pleanala – Carlow Live https://www.carlowlive.ie/news/home/1041438/refusal-for-carlow-estate-development-appealed-to-an-bord-pleanala.html

• Well-known Kildare hotel has development plans for its gate lodge https://www.kildarenow.com/news/home/1041393/well-known-kildare-hotel-has-development-plans-for-its-gate-lodge.html

• New glamping pods for north Mayo seaside village  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/02/19/new-glamping-pods-for-north-mayo-seaside-village/

• Permission granted for Children’s Disability Service in Roscommon  https://www.shannonside.ie/news/permission-granted-for-childrens-disability-service-in-roscommon-219377

• Planning lodged for significant expansion at Longford school  https://www.shannonside.ie/news/planning-lodged-for-significant-expansion-at-longford-school-219351

• Glencar becomes one of UK’s largest contractors: The company took on more than 100 new employees in the period, and opened new offices in St Albans and Manchester, and expanded into Ireland https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/financial/glencar-becomes-one-of-uks-largest-contractors-22-02-2023/

• Ireland’s biggest private landlord Ires Reit posts loss after property write-down: The firm lowered its dividend for the year after being hit by rising interest rates https://www.businesspost.ie/article/irelands-biggest-private-landlord-ires-reit-posts-loss-after-property-write-down/

• Appeal to An Bord Pleanála on Longford development ‘invalid’ – Longford Live https://www.longfordleader.ie/news/longfordleader/1045672/appeal-to-an-bord-pleanala-on-longford-development-invalid.html

• Scott Tallon Walker appoints four new project directors: The appointees will work across healthcare, urban design, education and commercial areas at the architectural practice  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/scott-tallon-walker-appoints-four-new-project-directors/

• Cork timber firm fined €90k for health and safety breaches after front-loader incident: ‘Many of these cases involve companies taking shortcuts to increase their profits – that is not present here,’ judge said  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41079623.html

PROPTECH, ESG, MMC & CONSTRUCTION INNOVATION

• Proptech Ireland is updating the database of 2023 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?  🔗 prop-tech.ie 

• Going public: Why Irish tech firms are wary of IPOs: For start-ups and scaling companies in Ireland, the route to the stock market can be an unruly one https://www.businesspost.ie/connected/going-public-why-irish-tech-firms-are-wary-of-ipos/

• Sexism still strong in tech sector, survey finds: New Web Summit survey finds majority of women tech workers feel they are paid unfairly in comparison to male counterparts https://www.businesspost.ie/connected/sexism-still-strong-in-tech-sector-survey-finds/

• Diversity in Funding: 16 VCs and Angel Networks Backing Diverse Founders in the UK | 2023   https://www.beauhurst.com/blog/funds-backing-diverse-founders/?utm_content=238502984&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-1043267

• Enterprise Ireland launches two programmes worth a combined €63m: The Innovators Initiative and KT Boost have combined funding of over €63 million and are aimed at promoting innovation and research.  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/enterprise-ireland-launches-two-programmes-worth-a-combined-e63m/

• Boot camp and start-up weekend aim to kick-start women in tech: Techstars weekend offers access to mentors and investors, while TechFoundHer will hold workshops and talks to help female founders get more tech savvy  https://www.businesspost.ie/connected/boot-camp-and-start-up-weekend-aim-to-kick-start-women-in-tech/

• The Global PropTech Market size is expected to reach $64.3 billion by 2028, rising at a market growth of 15.4% CAGR during the forecast period  https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/02/22/2613208/0/en/The-Global-PropTech-Market-size-is-expected-to-reach-64-3-billion-by-2028-rising-at-a-market-growth-of-15-4-CAGR-during-the-forecast-period.html

• Irish proptech Topfloor snapped up by UK software company https://www.siliconrepublic.com/business/grafenia-topfloor-acquisition-dublin-proptech

• Competition for digital skills is fierce – construction needs a new mindset https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/agenda/opinion/expert/competition-for-digital-skills-is-fierce-construction-needs-a-new-mindset-22-02-2023/

• Smart homes: using tech to lower your bills: Are you wasting money on power? Alex Meehan investigates if technology could play a part in helping you to cut costs  https://www.businesspost.ie/connected/smart-homes-using-tech-to-lower-your-bills/

• How Technology Is Making The Retail Industry More Efficient And Improving The Customer Experience  https://www.forbes.com/sites/garydrenik/2023/02/23/how-technology-is-making-the-retail-industry-more-efficient-and-improving-the-customer-experience/?sh=41b1f1b73598

• London-based proptech company expands to US  https://www.standard.co.uk/business/proptech-company-landtech-flordia-expansion-b1061691.html

• London proptech firm hopes to help solve America’s housing crisis  https://primeresi.com/london-proptech-firm-hopes-to-help-solve-americas-housing-crisis/

• Proptech firm has ‘names on pages’ for more takeovers  https://www.estateagenttoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2023/2/proptech-firm-has-names-on-pages-for-more-takeovers?source=newsticker

• Spain-based proptechs have raised $1.1B since 2020  https://aimgroup.com/2023/02/20/spain-based-proptechs-have-raised-1-1b-since-2020/

• Italian Start-up operating in the proptech sector seeks co-founder | ArchDaily https://www.archdaily.com/996709/start-up-operating-in-the-proptech-sector-seeks-co-founder

• Generic vs. construction ERP. Which one to choose? https://techbuzzireland.com/2023/02/20/generic-vs-construction-erp-which-one-to-choose/?amp=1

• PropTech Innovations: the technology solutions coming out of this industry bring tangible benefits to all stakeholders in the real estate market – buyers, investors, developers, agents, and property managers alike  https://storeys.com/proptech-for-everyone-owners-investors-property-managers/

• More Companies Are Adding Space Than Removing, But Only a Year Out – A new report from proptech company Visual Lease digs into what corporate CRE executives are planning.  https://www.globest.com/2023/02/24/more-companies-are-adding-space-than-removing-but-only-a-year-out/

• Proptech firm Facilio wins One Central contract for building energy benchmarking: Using Facilio’s platform, One Central will develop strategies to reduce energy costs  https://gulfnews.com/business/corporate-news/proptech-firm-facilio-wins-one-central-contract-for-building-energy-benchmarking-1.94058076

• CoreLogic acquires Aussie proptech Plezzel  https://aimgroup.com/2023/02/24/corelogic-acquires-aussie-proptech-plezzel/

• MyTower PropTech Platform Leverages IoT, AI, and SaaS to Optimize and Connect Property and Service Management   https://www.europeanbusinessreview.com/this-proptech-platform-leverages-iot-ai-and-saas-to-optimize-and-connect-property-and-service-management/

ENERGY, CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

• Wholesale electricity prices fell by 41.4% in January compared with the previous month, falling year-on-year by 19.5%: Figures released by the CSO show a sharp decline in wholesale electricity, following a month-on-month price surge of 93% in December 2022 https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41077385.html l

• End of Cork’s Marathon gas pipeline link will fuel site sale interest: Closure of Celtic Sea natural gas extraction after over 40 years and two trillion cubic feet of methane gas supplied sees landbase office site and five acres at Mahon up for grabs  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-41077817.html

• THE North Cork-based company DP Energy, a global leader in the development of renewable energy projects, has announced the appointment of Jeffrey Godsell to oversee its ground-breaking ‘Project to X’ initiative.  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/corkman/business/Farming/north-cork-based-global-renewable-energy-giant-unveils-new-appointment-42358212.html

• Irish ports need a dose of TLC if we are to achieve our climate goals: Building offshore wind farms requires the accelerated development of ports throughout Ireland  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/irish-ports-need-a-dose-of-tlc-if-we-are-to-achieve-our-climate-goals-42359274.html

• McConalogue ‘makes ground’ at €30 million Deep Water Quay Development at Ros an Mhil, Galway  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/f1c07-mcconalogue-makes-ground-at-30m-deep-water-quay-development-at-ros-an-mhil-galway/ Also: Redeveloped Connemara port ‘has capacity to become offshore wind hub’: Government allocated €25m last year to develop deep-water quay facility at Ros an Mhíl  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/23/redeveloped-connemara-port-has-capacity-to-become-offshore-wind-hub/

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• Property price rises are predicted to slow to as low as 3% this year, indicating a potential ceiling in the market.  https://extra.ie/2023/02/20/news/property-price-slow-ceiling

• M&G Real Estate’s newly launched European living fund has invested €99.5m to buy a private rented sector (PRS) scheme in Ireland. The M&G European Living Property Fund has bought the property in Eglinton Place in Dublin as its second asset.  https://realassets.ipe.com/news/mandg-european-living-property-fund-makes-second-acquisition/10065204.article Also: UK investor snaps up Dublin 4 apartment scheme for €99.5m – Homes at Eglinton Place to be aimed towards the upper end of city’s residential rental sector  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/02/22/uk-investor-snaps-up-dublin-4-apartment-scheme-for-995m/?

• M&G To Grow PRS Presence In Dublin As International Investors Target City  https://www.bisnow.com/dublin/news/build-to-rent/mg-to-grow-prs-presence-in-dublin-as-international-investors-target-city-117821

• Ulster Bank pushes up fixed rates for the second time in three months  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/ulster-bank-pushes-up-fixed-rates-for-the-second-time-in-three-months-42357889.html

• Is now the right time to switch my tracker mortgage to a fixed rate?  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wexford/business/is-now-the-right-time-to-switch-my-tracker-mortgage-to-a-fixed-rate-42352261.html

• Award-winning interior designer gives chapter and verse on home decor: A new book by Natasha Rocca Devine covers every aspect of home design and includes sections on staging and styling of all rooms, DIY starter kits and to-do lists  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/award-winning-interior-designer-gives-chapter-and-verse-on-home-decor/ Also:Interior designer Natasha Rocca Devine, founder of The Interiors NRD Studio, worked as an estate agent and interior designer in LA. Her new book, The Step-by-Step Guide to Designing and Styling Your Home, was recently published, and she will feature as a mentor on a new Virgin Media show called The Climate Challenge later this year. https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/i-lost-a-lot-of-money-due-to-covid-because-i-had-to-sell-warehouses-of-furniture-meant-for-showhomes-42359262.html

• How staging your home for sale could make you big money: Staging your home can slash the time it sits on the market and bump up the price. Grainne Rothery asks the professionals how to get buyers waiting in the wings https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/how-staging-your-home-for-sale-could-make-you-big-money-95cmbjgv3

• All you need-to-know about the Rent Tax Credit  https://www.irishexaminer.com/sponsored/arid-41076365.html

• Queries over 20 vacant apartments in Macroom  https://www.southernstar.ie/news/queries-over-20-vacant-apartments-in-macroom-4258105

• Galway  City rents rise by 157% in a decade  https://connachttribune.ie/city-rents-rise-by-157-in-a-decade-687/

• Limerick couple told to start work on house or get off site  https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/02/24/limerick-couple-told-to-start-work-on-house-or-get-off-site/

• Eligibility for ‘council mortgages’ to increase in Kilkenny  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/your-community/1045800/eligibility-for-council-mortgages-to-increase-in-kilkenny.html

• Modern apartment hits the market in Kilkenny city  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/property/1041752/modern-apartment-hits-the-market-in-kilkenny-city-see-pics.html

• Historic Kildare building could be converted into apartments https://www.kildarenow.com/news/home/1042589/breaking-historic-kildare-building-could-be-converted-into-apartments.html

• Over €252k spent on local authority housing upgrade works in Monaghan  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/over-e252k-spent-on-local-authority-housing-upgrade-works-in-monaghan-210498

• It “only” took 15 years, but finally it appears that the property market in Carrick- on-Shannon and South Leitrim are nearly back at price levels that prevailed in 2007 https://www.leitrimobserver.ie/news/carrick-on-shannon/1044677/property-prices-in-carrick-nearly-back-to-pre-crash-highs.html

• Building your own home can save money but is not for the faint-hearted: Compliance and cost issues can easily emerge if you are not familiar with construction, architect warns  https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2023/02/22/brianna-parkins-building-your-own-home-can-save-money-but-is-not-for-the-faint-hearted/

• Can my neighbour legally object to my house extension? Property Clinic: I’m wondering do I need planning permission for a 35sq m extension at the back of my house  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2023/02/22/can-my-neighbour-legally-object-to-my-house-extension/

• Inside Ireland’s most expensive house for sale with whopping price tag: The Howth home has some incredible features like two swimming pools, access to the sea, staff cottages, and an abundance of beguiling outbuildings  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/property/inside-irelands-most-expensive-house-26299075.amp

• Protected building on billionaire’s estate in the Midlands to be knocked and rebuilt  https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/home/1045084/protected-building-on-billionaire-s-estate-in-the-midlands-to-be-knocked-and-rebuilt.html

• 71 houses under retrofit programme upgraded in Monaghan  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/71-houses-under-retrofit-programme-upgraded-in-monaghan-210704

• RTÉ Home of the Year: See inside 1930s house redesigned for modern family life: The second house through to the final ‘maximises every square inch’, says interior designer and judge Sara Cosgrove  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/homeandgardens/arid-41076971.html

• Waterville’s scenic Sea Lodge Hotel put on the market for €1.6m: Sea Lodge, which had a successful wedding trade in the past, is at the heart of Waterville, in close proximity to the world-renowned Waterville Golf Links and the exclusive Hogs Head golf course  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-41077925.html

• Properties on the market for €40,000+ https://thatsfarming.com/farming-news/properties-for-sale-in-mayo-feb-23/

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Commercial property set for ‘quiet’ first half of 2023 – Savills: Commercial property group predicts slowdown for big multinationals is temporary, with recovery later this year https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/21/tech-sector-poised-for-significant-upswing-when-equity-markets-recover-savills/

• Two hospitality openers and two closures to be aware of in Dublin right now https://lovindublin.com/food/2-openers-and-2-closures-to-be-aware-of-in-dublin-right-now

• McKillen jnr buying up St Stephen’s Green block for high-end Press Up hotel: The developer’s company Oakmount is currently closing in on purchase of several buildings on St Stephen’s Green  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/02/22/mckillen-jnr-buying-up-dublin-city-centre-block-for-high-end-hotel/

• Former Coke boss plans massive food market in Dublin’s docklands  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/former-coke-boss-plans-massive-food-market-in-dublins-docklands-kpp3j3mkj

• Pret a Manger opens second outlet in Dublin city centre: UK food and coffee chain kick-starts planned Irish expansion with new premises at the Station Building in Harcourt Street  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/02/22/pret-a-manger-opens-second-outlet-in-dublin-city-centre-in-just-five-months/

• Hammerson backs Foot Locker for Ilac Centre traffic boost  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/hammerson-backs-foot-locker-for-ilac-centre-traffic-boost-42355139.html

• Morrison Hotel applies to convert event spaces into more rooms: Inflation has left the Hilton-owned hotel’s meeting and wedding space underused and not financially sustainable, the hotel is now seeking permission to add an additional 16 rooms  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/morrison-hotel-applies-to-convert-event-spaces-into-more-rooms/

• Red Cow bosses are still bullish on hotels and homes: Tracey and Michael Moran are rebuilding their family’s fortune with a residential development business  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/red-cow-bosses-are-still-bullish-on-hotels-and-homes-sbhc9z6pg

• Google to cut 240 jobs from Irish workforce  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/0222/1358146-google-jobs/

• Kennedy Wilson not concerned about layoffs in the tech sector: The US-based real estate investment firm with a sizeable Dublin portfolio says that despite some recent redundancies, the IT sector has added 35,000 new jobs since the beginning of the pandemic https://www.businesspost.ie/news/kennedy-wilson-not-concerned-about-layoffs-in-the-tech-sector/
  
• Rohan Holdings secure two new tenants at latest Dublin logistics scheme: Developer agrees rents in excess of €12 per sq ft and lease terms of over 15 years at South West Business Park https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/02/22/rohan-holdings-secure-two-new-tenants-at-latest-dublin-logistics-scheme/

• Demand for nursing homes increasing as deals worth €440m completed last year: Increased affluence, improved health and longer life expectancy are increasing demand for nursing home beds with 2022 being the second-strongest year in terms of deals https://www.businesspost.ie/property/demand-for-nursing-homes-increasing-as-deals-worth-e440m-completed-last-year/

• Primary Health Properties shares fall as interest rate uncertainty dampens investment activity  https://www.sharesmagazine.co.uk/news/shares/primary-health-properties-shares-fall-as-interest-rate-uncertainty-dampens-investment-activity

• Hairy Lemon share ownership dispute goes to High Court: Publican Paul Clinton is attempting to reverse transfer of shares in the Dublin pub https://www.businesspost.ie/news/hairy-lemon-share-ownership-dispute-goes-to-high-court/

• Vacant Cork office building to be converted into enhanced community care centre: The HSE said the facility earmarked for a building in Ballincollig is subject to ongoing negotiation with the developer  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41076521.html

• New five-screen Omniplex in Ballinasloe set to open in May  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/new-five-screen-omniplex-in-ballinasloe-set-to-open-in-may/

• Fine two-storey detached commercial and residential premises with potential for sale, formally a Post Office premises. Ber Exempt. Situated in a prime location in Castlecomer town centre.  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/property/1043692/former-post-office-and-residence-for-sale-in-a-popular-kilkenny-town-see-more.html

• IDA IMPRESSIVELY DELIVERED FOR THE SOUTH EAST DURING 2022  https://waterford-news.ie/2023/02/22/ida-impressively-delivered-for-the-south-east-during-2022/

• Woodview Lodge Of Co. Mayo Being Sold  https://www.hospitalityireland.com/amp/hotel/woodview-lodge-of-co-mayo-being-sold-196737

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• The housebuilding crisis: The UK’s 4 million missing homes – Compared to other European countries, Britain has a backlog of millions of homes that are missing from the housing market. Building these homes is key to solving the nation’s housing crisis | Centre for Cities https://www.centreforcities.org/publication/the-housebuilding-crisis/

• UK: Sharp decline in first-time buyers following pandemic boom  https://propertyindustryeye.com/sharp-decline-in-first-time-buyers-following-pandemic-boom/

• Developer Bruntwood has secured planning for its ground-breaking £31m mass timber frame office in south Manchester. https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/02/21/manchester-6-storey-mass-timber-frame-office-approved/

• Turkey’s rotten construction industry — and how British firms cashed in  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/turkey-buildings-death-trap-built-british-pfi-model-k2drsddrl

• Rooms To Go, Scott Brothers Global ink exclusive upholstery deal  https://www.furnituretoday.com/furniture-retailer/rooms-to-go-scott-brothers-global-ink-exclusive-upholstery-deal/

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/