WEEKLY PROPERTY ROUND-UP FEBRUARY 5TH, 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:

• Can the Government live up to its promises on housing? https://www.rte.ie/news/2023/0205/1353810-housing-analysis/
• IBEC –  Better Lives | Better Business: The housing crisis is a social crisis
  • “Offsite construction, which involves the partial or full manufacture of building structures at a manufacturing facility remote from the building site, can play a significant role in increasing housing supply, particularly the delivery of quality social and affordable homes – thereby increasing the speed of delivery, delivering more sustainable homes, and reducing the need for onsite labour. The production of housing units offsite is a type of Modern Method of Construction (#MMC) that includes modular and timber frame construction…”
  • Download the report in full: https://file-eu.clickdimensions.com/ibecie-agzlc/files/ibecbetterhousing,betterbusinessreport-january2023-pii.pdf?1675073132617&_cldee=QNmw69eSqC0SxiuHkeblxQyGnubZqvla9IjnoVP9q8AwPDhtarQH85g4LxrC9CGK&recipientid=contact-ee42e24cc4d5ec11a7b500224885298f-ae11525e287349b08621d42ab124ea29&esid=73894ea2-84a0-ed11-aad1-000d3aad602f
• Housing now biggest threat to Ireland’s economic wellbeing: Business leaders say we’ve reached a tipping point and that unless something is done to improve housing availability, our jobs-rich growth model will stall https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/03/housing-now-the-biggest-threat-to-irelands-economic-wellbeing/
• Ireland’s housing crisis: why doesn’t the State step in and build? Red tape means purchasing social housing units directly from the private sector has become a more efficient use of resources https://www.irishtimes.com/business/economy/2023/01/29/irelands-housing-crisis-why-doesnt-the-state-step-in-and-build/?
• We are building too low and too small — our density problem is inflaming the housing crisis  https://m.independent.ie/opinion/we-are-building-too-low-and-too-small-our-density-problem-is-inflaming-the-housing-crisis-42324514.html
• One of the measures unveiled by Ibec would reduce the cost of a typical €400,000 new home by €30,000, it claims, and could be implemented “with immediate effect”  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/news/shortage-of-housing-is-a-critical-barrier-to-investment-in-ireland-ibec-warns-42318217.html
• Value of Irish investment properties fell in 2022 and the pace of decline accelerated in the last quarter of the year. According to the MSCI/SCSI Ireland Quarterly Property Index which monitors over €9bn of direct Irish property assets, Q4 22 saw capital values fall 4.5pc, bringing the annual rate of decline to 6.2pc. This quarter also saw the worst quarter for capital values since September 2011 https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/office-and-residential-values-suffered-declines-in-2022-42324015.html
• Ires Reit seen selling as much as €50m of assets this year: Ireland’s biggest private landlord is likely to sell even if prices fall more than expected, Barclays analysts say  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/04/ires-reit-seen-selling-as-much-as-50m-of-assets-this-year/
• Vacant Victorian flats refurbished for social housing after 18 years of dereliction: Tuath Housing redeveloped Ellis Court on Benburb Street, Dublin at a cost of €9 million  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/02/02/vacant-victorian-flats-refurbished-for-social-housing-after-18-years-of-dereliction/
• Our first ‘digital born’ hospital may push forward a new era in child healthcare: A key part of the new children’s hospital will be digital technology, with high-tech involved in everything from patient records to the systems controlling the building  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/02/our-first-digital-born-hospital-may-push-forward-a-new-era-in-child-healthcare/
• Pyrite remediation to cost estimated €230m by 2026, figures show – Scheme for those affected by mica and defective blocks could cost State more than €3.65bn  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/01/30/pyrite-remediation-to-cost-estimated-230m-by-2026-figures-show/
• Pyrite repair target reduced last year due to staffing and supply chain issues: Housing Agency is told target of premises to be repaired was reduced to 242 from 285 in 2022  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/02/04/pyrite-repair-target-reduced-last-year-due-to-staffing-and-supply-chain-issues/
• First of 1,100 legal actions over mica admitted to fast-track Commercial Court: Couple suing concrete block suppliers, Donegal County Council, and National Standards Authority of Ireland  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/courtandcrime/arid-41060195.html
• Senior barrister to investigate ‘matters of concern’ at An Bord Pleanála: Staff told process required as part of the effort to regain public confidence in planning authority  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/01/31/senior-barrister-to-investigate-matters-of-concern-at-an-bord-pleanala/
• Notice of appointments to the Board of the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency (Housing Agency)  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/3250c-notice-of-appointments-to-the-board-of-the-housing-and-sustainable-communities-agency-housing-agency/
• Big buildings sought by Minister to house refugees and asylum seekers on camp beds  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2023/02/03/refugees-to-be-housed-in-big-buildings-with-camp-beds-and-sleeping-bags-under-ministers-plan/
• National average residential vacancy rate falls to 4%  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/0131/1352749-national-average-residential-vacancy-rate-falls-to-4/
• Minister O’Brien launches new Vacant Homes Action Plan and details of new €150 million URDF vacancy fund  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/42854-minister-obrien-launches-new-vacant-homes-action-plan-and-details-of-new-150-million-urdf-vacancy-fund/ Also: Multi-million euro fund targets areas with high dereliction to boost housing  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/multi-million-euro-fund-targets-areas-with-high-dereliction-to-boost-housing-1425790.html
• Tackling dereliction depends on councils having ‘fire in their bellies’  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41062130.html
• Restoring buildings ‘better for emission targets than new builds’  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41060309.html
• Councils seek €40 million to help beef up staffing in planning departments nationwide: Local authorities have sought funding from the Government to recruit an additional 541 planning staff https://www.thejournal.ie/councils-planning-department-staff-increase-o-broin-housing-5982568-Jan2023/?utm_source=shortlink
• Housing Agency warned councils over failure to carry out inspections of mortgage-to-rent scheme homes: Councils advised to ‘put pressure’ on company over home repairs in State scheme  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/02/01/housing-agency-warned-councils-over-failure-to-carry-out-inspections-of-mortgage-to-rent-scheme-homes/
• Low-cost loans for home retrofits face fresh delays amid ‘intensive’ engagement: Homeowners will be offered low interest loans of up to €50,000 to fund home upgrades  https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2023/01/29/low-cost-loans-for-home-retrofits-face-fresh-delays-amid-intensive-engagement/
• Pre-tax profits increase seven-fold at property services firm Lisney  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/business/pre-tax-profit-increase-seven-fold-at-property-services-firm-lisney-1425842.html
• Agents: When it comes to winning instructions, stay alert and be creative  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/when-it-comes-to-winning-instructions-stay-alert-and-be-creative-42324019.html
• Businessman behind collapsed luxury rental firm now director of apartment-letting outfit  https://m.independent.ie/news/businessman-behind-collapsed-luxury-rental-firm-now-director-of-apartment-letting-outfit-42323961.html
• The Irish government leased 43,000 square feet at 200 Park Avenue, aka the MetLife Building, the Commercial Observer reported. The government office known as Ireland House will move into the 17th floor while relocating from 345 Park Avenue in 2024.  https://therealdeal.com/2023/01/30/metlife-building-gets-the-luck-of-the-irish/amp/
• Tech workers should look at the construction sector for new jobs, as demand for skilled professionals drops in one sector and rises in the other, according to the President of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI).  https://m.independent.ie/business/laid-off-tech-workers-should-look-to-property-says-top-surveyor-42323967.html
• Against the grain — building a new town fit for the King: In Tornagrain, near Inverness, planners are taking their time, choosing legacy over a quick profit  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/tornagrain-building-a-new-town-fit-for-the-king-36ffq7rpn
• Steel output at its lowest since the Great Depression: Serious doubts over future of the industry in UK  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/steel-output-at-its-lowest-since-the-great-depression-n5s79xc63
• Retiring execs struggle with the slower pace of life after work: Very few businesses help prepare executives for retirement, risking reputational damage, angst for staff and financial losses  https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/economy/arid-41063528.html

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!)

Big celebrations this week on iPropertyRadio!

🏗 4 years, 400+ guests, and 7,483,426 social media impressions in 2022…

This week, we celebrate 4 years of  ‘Property Matters’ radio show airing on Dublin South 93.9 FM every Tuesday from 6-7pm. What started as a weekly one-hour radio show and podcast quickly transitioned into iPropertyRadio, a 24/7 online channel featuring 12 construction, real estate and proptech podcasts in audio and/or video, from Ireland, the UK, the US and Australia. We look forward to growing our shows in 2023 and continuing our work with amazing show hosts from all around the world 👏 .This milestone marks four years of educating, entertaining (often accidentally!) and hopefully inspiring listeners.

Back in 2019, we wanted to create a media space that would be unapologetically pro-property; a space to share what is great about the built environment, while having robust conversations about needs to change across the industry. I remain as excited about the industry today as I was 4 years ago (and two decades ago!), and I am optimistic about the sheer potential that innovative proptech and contech can unleash. Back in 2019, my co-host Bryan Fox was definitely the early driver of this radio show, despite having a heavy broadcasting schedule with daily news bulletins and his own Friday Forum show every week.

Katie Tallon was our very first show producer, with Emma Hayes filling the many roles of guest booker, script writer and stand-in host when needed (with Gavin J Gallagher)! Since then Amey Puro, Bríd Molloyand most recently Chikumo Fiseko have helped to make this digital brand what it is today – the widest reaching digital brand in Ireland dedicated to the built environment – averaging 765,876 social impressions every month!

Thank you to the Ireland’s Property District and Hear Me Roar Media teams, the Dublin South 93.9 FMcrew, the 400+ guests who have shared their expertise and industry insights with us, and to everyone who listens regularly and engages with us online – we appreciate your support 🙏

This week on iPropertyRadio

Understanding Ireland’s Commercial Property Dynamics

This week on ‘Property Matters’ on iPropertyRadio, host Carol Tallon is joined by John McCartney, Director & Head of Research at BNP Paribas Real Estate Ireland, to discuss the latest Construction PMI and Ireland’s commercial property dynamics, with a particular focus on offices and logistics.

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

The business case for stellar tenant engagement

In the iPropertyRadio.com Proptech Hot Seat with host Carol Tallon this week are Jeremy Heath-Smith, CEO of  Spike Global, and Susan Barrett, Spike Global’s representative in the irish market, to discuss the growing importance of tenant engagement for building owners/managers. We also explore changes in tenant needs and expectations since the pandemic.

Watch back and listen back: https://ipropertyradio.com/proptech-hot-seat/

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

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/

• 10 of Ireland’s most charming villages: Some of the quirkiest, most picturesque villages are nestled in the outer reaches of the Irish countryside, which has helped preserve their character https://amp.theguardian.com/travel/2023/feb/04/10-of-irelands-most-charming-villages

• A bill has been introduced to the Dáil that aims to modernise laws governing murals and protect “really beautiful and really important public art”. The Public Art Mural (Exempted Development) Bill was presented to the Dáil by Sinn Féin.  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/bill-aims-to-resolve-planning-laws-at-heart-of-legal-action-against-subset-1427738.html

• Eamon Ryan today confirmed that the National Transport Authority (NTA) has allocated funds to Ireland’s local authorities with a view to spending €290 million on walking and cycling infrastructure in 2023  https://www.gov.ie/en/press-release/67058-minister-ryan-joins-nta-as-290m-is-made-available-for-walking-and-cycling-infrastructure-this-year/

• Work starts to pedestrianise Dublin’s Liffey Street: Work begins on the €6.5 million Liffey Street rejuvenation scheme which puts pedestrians at the ‘heart of city life’ https://www.businesspost.ie/article/work-starts-to-pedestrianise-dublins-liffey-street/Captivating Connemara: A week in the west reveals delightful seafood: French food writer Katia Valadeau ventures to Connemara for a solo staycation and finds the picturesque region contains plenty for discerning diners  https://www.businesspost.ie/food-and-wine/captivating-connemara-a-week-in-the-west-reveals-delightful-seafood/ 
• ‘It’s a weird dynamic’ – Meet the generation of young workers in the living with parents trap: As the housing crisis bites, many full-time workers in their 20s and 30s are choosing to stay at home rather than fly the nest  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/dublin/its-a-weird-dynamic-meet-the-generation-of-young-workers-in-the-living-with-parents-trap-42316366.html

• New Study Considers Recreation Value of Grand Canal in Dublin’s South Central Area  https://afloat.ie/inland/inland-waterways/item/57676-new-study-considers-recreation-value-of-grand-canal-in-dublin-s-south-central-area

• A West Dublin train station, which has been lying empty for 14 years, is finally set to open. Kishoge station, between Clondalkin and Adamstown, was intended to serve a new community at Clonburris. https://www.98fm.com/news/west-dublin-train-station-finally-to-open-this-year-after-14-years-empty-1432550

• Historic Dublin building being used to house refugees in city centre: There are 60 International Protection applicants being housed in the Staircase and other buildings on Aungier Street  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/historic-dublin-building-being-used-26106274.amp

• Iveagh Markets preservation works to finally begin after years of decay: The works have been estimated to cost €12 million – and it is expected the Government will pay the bill  https://www.dublinlive.ie/news/dublin-news/iveagh-market-preservation-works-finally-26136052

• ‘Living in Dublin feels so romantic, but living here is incredibly challenging financially’ https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2023/01/31/living-in-dublin-feels-so-romantic-but-living-here-is-incredibly-challenging-financially/

• Cork residents begin protest at construction site and call for homes to go on open market: Residents said the protest, which began this morning, will “remain in place until meaningful engagement from the developer”. https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41061746.html Also: Developer contacts Killeens residents following protest at housing estate: The committee has said the protest will continue until residents meet with the developer and until the developer “considers the needs and concerns of the estate, as well as revisit the existing agreement with the housing services”.  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41063180.html

• An architecture graduate from Goleen has reimagined Skibbereen’s iconic mill building on Ilen Street and the various uses it could be put to by its current owners, Cork County Council  https://www.southernstar.ie/news/goleen-woman-reveals-her-vision-for-former-soup-kitchen-in-skibbereen-4256616

• Cork building to get specialist cleaning ahead of becoming tech hub  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41061080.html

• The real Banshees of Inisherin and me: The movie is tipped to clean up at the Baftas and Oscars. Its portrait of life on the Aran Islands is accurate, says Jane Mulkerrins, whose family hail from neighbouring Mweenish  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/the-real-banshees-of-inisherin-ireland-jkbcw35fm

• Application for €600m Galway ring road to be considered afresh by Bord Pleanála: Final orders made on three judicial review actions that challenged planning board’s permission for 18km project  https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/01/30/application-for-600m-galway-ring-road-to-be-considered-afresh-by-bord-pleanala/

• Step forward in plans to restore tidal swimming pools in Salthill  https://connachttribune.ie/step-forward-in-plans-to-restore-tidal-swimming-pools-in-salthill/

• Three years on and ‘Changing Places’ facility on Salthill Promenade still not open  https://connachttribune.ie/three-years-on-and-changing-places-facility-on-salthill-promenade-still-not-open/

• Athenry, Loughrea, Gort and Headford now priorities for transport studies  https://connachttribune.ie/athenry-loughrea-gort-and-headford-now-priorities-for-transport-studies/

• Father Ted ‘TedFest’ returns to Inis Mór next month  https://connachttribune.ie/father-ted-tedfest-returns-to-inis-mor-next-month/

• Limerick pyrite campaigners come together to demand action  https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/1020082/limerick-pyrite-campaigners-come-together-to-demand-action.html

• Residents in Lismore protest against use of town’s refurbished hotel for direct provision: Over 200 people reportedly gathered yesterday for a demonstration in the west Waterford town, arguing that the building had been earmarked for tourism.  https://www.thejournal.ie/lismore-protests-refugees-5982298-Jan2023/

• Over €1million has been allocated for the marine industry in Dunmore East https://www.waterfordlive.ie/news/home/1023845/over-1m-allocated-to-marine-industry-in-waterford-fishing-village.html

• Eamon Ryan voices opposition to old rail lines in West being turned into greenways  https://galwaybayfm.ie/galway-bay-fm-news-desk/eamon-ryan-voices-opposition-to-old-rail-lines-in-west-being-turned-into-greenways/

• ‘It beggars belief’ – Carlow estate with 63 ‘fully-finished’ houses lying empty: ‘It just seems like a huge opportunity that has been let go for the last ten years.’  https://www.newstalk.com/news/it-beggars-belief-carlow-estate-with-63-fully-finished-houses-lying-empty-1432642

• Plans Submitted For Nearly 100 Homes In The Midlands  https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/plans-submitted-for-nearly-100-homes-in-laois/  https://www.kildarenow.com/news/home/1026539/kildare-co-council-seeking-contractors-to-build-pedestrian-bridge-as-part-of-barrow-blueway-project.html

• Waterford has one of lowest levels of vacant homes  https://www.wlrfm.com/news/waterford-has-one-of-lowest-levels-of-vacant-homes-289472

• Works required at Wicklow Courthouse to ensure future survival of historic building  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/wicklow/news/works-required-at-wicklow-courthouse-to-ensure-future-survival-of-historic-building-deputy-matthews-42318620.html

• What Athlone’s new streetscape revamp is expected to look like  https://www.westmeathindependent.ie/2023/02/03/what-athlones-new-streetscape-revamp-is-expected-to-look-like/

• ROSCREA has been selected to be one of only four sites in Ireland to benefit from a new idea to create a solution to the housing crisis.  https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/home/1024956/roscrea-one-of-only-four-irish-towns-for-social-housing-design-competition.html

• Aer Lingus to operate daily service between Mayo airport and Heathrow  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/01/31/aer-lingus-to-operate-daily-service-between-mayo-airport-and-heathrow/

• Public invited to have say over preferred route for Mayo road project  https://www.con-telegraph.ie/2023/02/01/public-invited-to-have-say-over-preferred-route-for-mayo-road-project/

• Housing constraints ‘causing serious risk’ for islanders trying to sustain populations: Planning blockages, high building costs and no rental options are creating a housing crisis on our offshore islands.  https://www.thejournal.ie/island-nation-2-housing-5976606-Jan2023/

• 27 refugees have been accommodated at a premises at Lower Main Street in Letterkenny  https://www.donegaldaily.com/2023/01/30/27-refugees-moved-to-well-known-letterkenny-premises/amp/

• Up to 100 council tenants in Donegal renting out premises as Airbnbs it’s claimed  https://www.oceanfm.ie/2023/01/31/up-to-100-council-tenants-in-donegal-renting-out-premises-as-airbnbs-its-claimed/

• Flood risk affecting 229 properties in Donegal Town and Killybegs; The CEFRAM (Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management) identified Donegal Town as being susceptible to all types of flooding, fluvial (river floods) pluvial (surface water floods) coastal, rivers overtopping, flash flooding, high tides and storm surges.”  https://www.donegallive.ie/news/local-news/1026207/flood-risk-affecting-229-properties-in-donegal-town-and-killybegs.html

• Calls For Clare’s County Development Plan To Be Adjusted To Account For Population Surge  https://www.clare.fm/news/calls-clares-county-development-plan-adjusted-account-population-surge/

• Calls for calm amid rumours of new direct provision centre in Listowel https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/calls-for-calm-amid-rumours-of-new-direct-provision-centre-in-listowel-315514

• Plans for 15-metre mast in Knocknagoshel village refused by council https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/plans-for-15-metre-mast-in-knocknagoshel-village-refused-by-council-315401

• Council to examine feasibility of ferry service between Cahersiveen and Dingle  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/council-to-examine-feasibility-of-ferry-service-between-cahersiveen-and-dingle-315471

• Cooling cities through urban green infrastructure: a health impact assessment of European cities  https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(22)02585-5/fulltext

CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT NEWS

Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien and Sean O’Connor, chief executive of the housing association Túath, at the official opening of the refurbished complex. Photograph: Damien Eagers for The Irish Times

• Home buyers will foot the bill for land hoarding tax, says lobby group: Property Industry Ireland has warned the government that the incoming residential zoned land tax (RZLT) will only make housing more expensive  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/home-buyers-will-foot-the-bill-for-land-hoarding-tax-says-lobby-group/

• Developers, architects and builders must incorporate carbon reduction measures into construction: As energy demands of buildings slowly being reduce with better insulation and more renewable energy, attention now turns to embodied carbon  https://www.irishtimes.com/science/2023/02/02/developers-architects-and-builders-must-incorporate-carbon-reduction-measures-into-construction/

• Housing Crisis Could Be Exacerbated By Shortfall In Surveyors  https://businessplus.ie/news/surveyors-shortfall-housing-scsi/

• Ireland has hit peak construction. Data reveals it is still not nearly enough: While almost 30,000 homes were completed last year, just 22,300 started – down from 25,400 in 2021. Meanwhile, the number of properties granted planning permission has fallen https://thecurrency.news/articles/108641/peak-construction-the-number-of-housing-completions-has-spiked-but-a-deep-dive-into-the-data-reveals-a-grim-outlook/

• Tradespeople need houses too: The Government’s housing targets could become more and more unachievable if the very workers needed to build them are forced to leave the country https://www.irishexaminer.com/opinion/arid-41061470.html

• Uisce Éireann building delays ‘stunting’ growth of towns  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41059649.html

• Further blow to housing targets as new apprenticeships fall by more than a third https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41059631.html

• Construction workers secure increased redundancy  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/0130/1352786-construction-workers-redundancy/

• Number of claims by sub-contractors to recover bills over €10k doubles: Low-cost construction contracts adjudication process is generally faster than in the courts  https://www.businesspost.ie/politics/number-of-claims-by-sub-contractors-to-recover-bills-over-e10k-doubles/

• Land hoarders hit in the pocket with a fresh dig: Already constrained by red tape, delays and judicial reviews, many developers resent the new zoned land tax  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/land-hoarders-hit-in-the-pocket-with-a-fresh-dig-p27pmwbq3

• Data centre building spend soars as investors pile in: Management consultancy firm McKinsey forecast predicts sharp rise in construction of such centres globally in coming years https://www.businesspost.ie/tech/data-centre-building-spend-soars-as-investors-pile-in/

• Cairn Homes secures €131m from sale of Greystones apartments: Tuath Housing and Land Development Agency acquire 316 new homes for provision of affordable, cost-rental housing  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/02/01/cairn-homes-secures-131m-from-sale-of-greystones-apartments/

• Dispute resolved over access route to 250 Palmerstown apartments: Construction of five apartment blocks is at an advanced stage  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/31/dispute-resolved-over-access-route-to-250-palmerstown-apartments/

• Irish Life submits plans for Dublin office hub on former AIB site  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/irish-life-submits-plans-for-dublin-office-hub-on-former-aib-site-42327713.html

• Plan for battery storage site beside data centre hub in south Dublin  https://m.independent.ie/business/irish/plan-for-battery-storage-site-beside-data-centre-hub-in-south-dublin-42323974.html

• CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON NEW COST RENTAL HOMES IN KILTIERNAN https://dublinpeople.com/news/southside/articles/2023/01/30/43632-19/

• Report reveals a rebound in Cork construction activity during 2022: Data also shows there were 5,182 residential transactions in Cork during 2022, up from 4,925 in 2021  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/corkman/news/report-reveals-a-rebound-in-cork-construction-activity-during-2022-42323049.html

• Cork residents threaten to block construction of social housing in estate  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41060012.html

• Judge Rosemary Horgan granted an interim injunction against the protestors carrying out certain actions at the site on the Killarney Road, Lower Codrum, Macroom, County Cork.  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41063672.html

• Appeal lodged against 400 new homes in Midleton: Planning application lodged last August for development on 12.6 hectare area in East Cork  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/munster/arid-41064290.html

• ALDI begin construction on new Carrigaline store  https://www.thecork.ie/2023/02/04/aldi-begin-construction-on-new-carrigaline-store/

• Construction progresses on first Munster data centre at Cork’s Little Island: JCD Group in talks with potential operator of  84,000 sq ft ‘next generation’data centre  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-41062268.html

• Work begins on €10m supermarket for Cork commuter town: The new Carrigaline store will bring to 26 the number of Aldi stores in Cork, while the retailer currently employs over 1,000 people in the county.  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41061722.html

• Permission granted for Limerick student accommodation development  https://www.limerickpost.ie/2023/01/30/permission-granted-for-limerick-student-accommodation-development/

• Galway college to be demolished as iconic building knocked to ground: Thirteen conditions have been attached for works to take place on the site  https://www.galwaybeo.ie/news/galway-news/galway-college-demolished-iconic-building-8101558

• Plans lodged for minor housing development in Kilcolgan  https://connachttribune.ie/plans-lodged-for-minor-housing-development-in-kilcolgan/amp/

• Green light for demolition of former Clarin College in Athenry  https://connachttribune.ie/green-light-for-demolition-of-former-clarin-college-in-athenry/

• Permission for next stage of Kilmeaden housing development granted  https://www.wlrfm.com/news/permission-for-next-stage-of-kilmeaden-housing-development-granted-289437

• KILDARE: Nearly 50 new homes planned for Castledermot  https://www.kildarenow.com/news/home/1027402/kildare-nearly-50-new-homes-planned-for-castledermot.html

• Kilkenny housing development refused planning permission  https://www.kilkennypeople.ie/news/south-kilkenny/1023929/kilkenny-housing-development-refused-planning-permission.html

• Ideas sought for future of the Friary Complex in Callan Co Kilkenny: Plans are underway for the property redevelopment  https://kclr96fm.com/ideas-sought-for-future-of-the-friary-complex-in-callan-co-kilkenny/

• Kildare Co Council extends planning permission for detached houses in Two Mile House https://www.leinsterleader.ie/news/home/1027618/kildare-co-council-extends-planning-permission-for-detached-houses-in-two-mile-house.html

• Council reaches settlement with developer in High Court dispute over Drogheda apartments: Developer claimed the council believed an administrative default prevented it from issuing a certificate of readiness for the 24 homes  https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/01/31/settlement-reached-in-high-court-dispute-over-completed-apartments-in-drogheda/

• Plans lodged for 183 new homes in Dundalk: Large Scale Residential Development plans lodged with Louth County Council  https://www.dundalkdemocrat.ie/news/home/1024460/plans-lodged-for-183-new-homes-in-dundalk.html

• Planning permission approved to complete Cavan ghost estate https://www.northernsound.ie/news/planning-permission-approved-to-complete-cavan-ghost-estate-209318

• Former public house to be converted into eight apartments  https://www.northernsound.ie/news/former-public-house-to-be-converted-into-eight-apartments-209304

• Plans Submitted For Nearly 100 Homes In The Midlands  https://www.midlands103.com/news/midlands-news/plans-submitted-for-nearly-100-homes-in-laois/

• Revised plans for residential care and assisted living facility submitted to Kerry County Council  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/revised-plans-for-residential-care-and-assisted-living-facility-submitted-to-kerry-county-council-315345

• Diocese of Kerry selling land close to Ballybunion church  https://www.radiokerry.ie/news/diocese-of-kerry-selling-land-close-to-ballybunion-church-315314

• New Director appointments at MOLA Architecture, one of Ireland’s leading architectural and interior design practices: Naomi Lloyd and Paul Finnegan join the founding Directors, Michael O’Carroll and Ralph Bingham https://www.irishrealestate.news/new-director-appointments-at-mola/

• “Modest” architecture focused on reuse and biomaterials to dominate in 2023  https://www.dezeen.com/2023/01/30/architecture-trends-predictions-2023-modest-reuse-biomaterials/

• High Court asked to appoint liquidator to Dublin forestry firm: The application has been made in relation to GWD Forestry Limited  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/31/high-court-asked-to-appoint-liquidator-to-dublin-forestry-firm/

• Construction executive brings court challenge over employer’s decision to suspend him from role: Gabriel MacGrath claims he is the subject of a conspiracy and a concentrated effort to remove him from his job  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/02/construction-executive-brings-court-challenge-over-employers-decision-to-suspend-him-from-role/

• CRH wins Company of the Year at Irish Times Business Awards: Dublin-listed building materials giant wins award sponsored by Bank of Ireland  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/02/crh-wins-company-of-the-year-at-irish-times-business-awards/

• Mid-Ulster-based property development company MCG Investments has reported a surge in growth during the last 12 months with property transactions in excess of £3m.     https://www.insidermedia.com/news/ireland/property-development-firm-well-placed-to-maintain-growth

• Steely boss Patrick Joy has plenty left in tank: Patrick Joy is restoring his container business back to its former glory — with a pizza franchise on the side  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/steely-boss-patrick-joy-has-plenty-left-in-tank-vdpv2gx58

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

• Proptech Ireland: Ireland’s CONSTRUCTION and REAL ESTATE ESG technologies resource hub. Confused about how and where to start on your ESG journey? Contact us 👉https://prop-tech.ie

• Venture capital firm co-founded by Irishman raises major €1bn tech fund: The venture capital firm intends to invest in promising growth-stage companies  https://www.businesspost.ie/tech/venture-capital-firm-co-founded-by-irishman-raises-major-e1bn-tech-fund/

• Global identity verification RegTech ID-Pal teams with Keystone Property   https://fintech.global/2023/01/30/global-identity-verification-regtech-id-pal-teams-with-keystone-property/

• Dunnes won’t commit to keeping 300 Buymie staff in acquisition: Supermarket chain is close to acquiring the on-demand grocery delivery service after it ran into difficulties last year when it failed to secure additional funding  https://www.businesspost.ie/tech/dunnes-wont-commit-to-keeping-300-buymie-staff-in-acquisition/

• Freshly renovated three-bed virtually ready to move into: Ballinteer property has had virtual staging applied to images to show prospective buyers what the house might look like after adding furniture  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/freshly-renovated-three-bed-virtually-ready-to-move-into/

• How Property Managers Can Unlock Proptech’s Potential: Today’s tools reward office owners and occupants alike—but it takes the right strategy https://www.commercialsearch.com/news/how-property-managers-can-unlock-proptechs-potential/

• The Benefits of Using PropTech Solutions for Your Business  https://researchsnipers.com/the-benefits-of-using-proptech-solutions-for-your-business/ 

• Utilities switching proptech buys Homebox platform: Billing Better and Homebox brands will both survive as the firms come together after years of close working. https://thenegotiator.co.uk/utilities-switching-proptech-buys-homebox-platform/

• The New Real Estate Game: A Future-Ready Framework For CRE Investment  https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/2023/02/03/the-new-real-estate-game-a-future-ready-framework-for-cre-investment/

• Yoti launches secure selfie digital ID checks for agents  https://aimgroup.com/2023/02/03/yoti-launches-secure-selfie-digital-id-checks-for-agents/

• Investing In The Underbanked: An Opportunity At The Intersection Of Fintech And Proptech https://www.forbes.com/sites/columbiabusinessschool/2023/02/01/investing-in-the-underbanked-an-opportunity-at-the-intersection-of-fintech-and-proptech/

• Proptech 101: Understanding the Growth and Impact of Real Estate Technology   https://shoppeblack.us/proptech-101/

• “We’re set to solve the riddle,” says proptech platform promising 4-week UK transactions https://todaysconveyancer.co.uk/set-solve-riddle-says-proptech-platform-promising-4-week-transactions/

• The online agency Yopa is linking with an existing PropTech platform to offer a lettings option to landlord customers  https://www.lettingagenttoday.co.uk/breaking-news/2023/2/online-agency-yopa-links-with-proptech-platform-to-offer-lettings-service

• Redundancy process under way at Reapit  https://propertyindustryeye.com/reapit-refuses-to-deny-that-staff-are-at-risk-of-redundancy/

• How innovative sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) can help cities keep their heads above water  https://www.pbctoday.co.uk/news/featured/how-innovative-sustainable-drainage-systems-suds-can-help-cities-keep-their-heads-above-water/120551/

• Potential investor pens open letter to OnTheMarket stakeholders proposing change  https://propertyindustryeye.com/disgruntled-investor-pens-open-letter-to-onthemarket-stakeholders/

• Energy X secures $20M at $120M valuation to slash building sector emissions  https://techcrunch.com/2023/01/31/energy-x-secures-20m-at-120m-valuation-to-slash-building-sector-emissions/amp/

ENERGY, CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

• Environmental group loses legal aid appeal over challenge to National Development Plan  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/environmental-group-loses-legal-aid-appeal-over-challenge-to-national-development-plan-1428153.html

• O’ Cuiv calls for critical infrastructure projects to be excluded from emissions targets  https://connachttribune.ie/o-cuiv-calls-for-critical-infrastructure-projects-to-be-excluded-from-emissions-targets/

• New solar farm and battery storage project on way for Wexford: SSE Renewables has unveiled proposals to develop its first solar farm and battery storage project near its existing wind farm in Wexford. https://www.farmersjournal.ie/new-solar-farm-and-battery-storage-project-on-way-for-wexford-746352

• Renewable biomethane gas and the energy network: Construction of a large-scale renewable gas injection facility  https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2023/01/31/renewable-biomethane-gas-and-the-energy-network/

• Planning failure at Derrybrien wind farm reaches total cost to State of €6.2 million: The Derrybrien wind farm, which ceased operations last year, was originally constructed two decades ago.  https://www.thejournal.ie/derrybrien-wind-farm-total-fines-6-2-million-5987018-Feb2023/

RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY NEWS (including PRS)

• ‘No evidence’ that the eviction ban has worked, analyst says: The eviction ban is set to end in April after being in place since last November  https://www.newstalk.com/news/no-evidence-that-the-eviction-ban-has-worked-analyst-says-1433277

• Two in five former landlords say tax breaks would have kept them in the market – RTB survey  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/politics/two-in-five-former-landlords-say-tax-breaks-would-have-kept-them-in-the-market-rtb-survey-42322115.html

• Housing crisis: Breakdown of counties with highest and lowest rate of vacant homes  https://m.independent.ie/irish-news/housing-crisis-breakdown-of-counties-with-highest-and-lowest-rate-of-vacant-homes-42320087.html

• Addressing rising costs is vital to owners’ management companies: Companies in all sectors are grappling with inflation, including the crucial function of setting budgets. OMCs are no different  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/addressing-rising-costs-is-vital-to-owners-management-companies/

• Dominant funds could set rents in several areas of Dublin: Research shows that in nine postcodes, property investors control 40 per cent of rental properties, and that they buy far more second-hand than new-build homes  https://www.businesspost.ie/news/dominant-funds-could-set-rents-in-several-areas-of-dublin/

A €1.8 million design classic in Dublin 2 and our pick of the homes for sale in Ireland this week: Grainne Rothery’s pick of the properties available to buy in Ireland this week  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/a-1-8-million-design-classic-in-dublin-2-and-our-pick-of-the-homes-for-sale-in-ireland-this-week-q7dzzjp2s

• On the market: your weekly guide to homes for sale around the country – A converted stable in Dundrum and a detached bungalow close to Newcastle beach are among the properties coming to market this week https://www.businesspost.ie/property/on-the-market-your-weekly-guide-to-homes-for-sale-around-the-country-23/

• Victorian gem for €7.5 million offers rare chance to buy on Temple Road: Lonsdale, which is for sale through luxury home specialist INHOUS, dates from 1884 and includes a mews and a coah house https://www.businesspost.ie/property/exquisite-victorian-pile-on-temple-road-guiding-e7-5m/

• Updated Victorian four-bed with sweeping views of Cork city: This sympathetically renovated period property overlooking Lovers Walk in Montenotte is on the market for €975,000  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/updated-victorian-four-bed-with-sweeping-views-of-cork-city/

• Start with a blank canvas to create a gallery in your home: Convert a wall in your house into a characterful gallery wall with prints, paintings and photographs  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/start-with-a-blank-canvas-to-create-a-gallery-in-your-home/

• Homeowners warned construction inflation could mean their property is underinsured  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41064329.html

• Protest at Dublin City Council over Tathony House evictions  https://www.breakingnews.ie/amp/ireland/protest-at-dublin-city-council-over-tathony-house-evictions-1428408.html

• 1 in 20 homes vacant in county Cork: In Cork, there is a 5% vacancy rate across the county, and a vacancy rate of 2.7% within the city.  https://www.echolive.ie/corknews/arid-41061467.html

• Race against time for AIB and Ulster Bank tracker customers to lock into fixed rates  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/how-much-is-your-house-worth/race-against-time-for-aib-and-ulster-bank-tracker-customers-to-lock-into-fixed-rates-42320148.html

• Think long and hard before surrendering your tracker mortgage rate: Your tracker margin, how long is left on the loan, whether it’s your home or an investment and your personal financial circumstances will all influence a decision  https://www.irishtimes.com/your-money/2023/01/31/think-long-and-hard-before-surrendering-your-tracker-mortgage-rate/

• Increase in mortgage activity not a sign of normal service resuming: ‘In essence the market is flat’, says one financial adviser  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/02/01/increase-in-mortgage-activity-not-a-sign-of-normal-service-resuming/

• The European Central Bank has raised its main borrowing rate by half a point to 3pc, promising the same next month.  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/property-mortgages/ecb-hikes-rates-by-half-a-point-pledging-the-same-in-march-42324818.html

• Renters’ tax relief: What you need to know: South Munster Citizens Information provides advice around tax relief and other tax issues for people renting in Ireland, a topical subject due to the new Rent Tax Credit which was introduced last month  https://www.echolive.ie/corkviews/arid-41058524.html

• Builder transformed this €295,000 dinky Cork city home from a wreck to a smart urban pad: First time buyers and investors will vie for this renovated Greenmount house https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41064275.html

• Galway student investment offers 6.5pc yield and vendor finance  https://m.independent.ie/business/commercial-property/galway-student-investment-offers-65pc-yield-and-vendor-finance-42324017.html

• Louth had third lowest vacancy rate in 2022 according to latest GeoDirectory report: GeoDirectory Residential Buildings Report Q4 2022  https://www.dundalkdemocrat.ie/news/home/1025891/louth-had-third-lowest-vacancy-rate-in-2022-according-to-latest-geodirectory-report.html

• Council to acquire 26 new houses in Laois village in bid to alleviate local housing need  https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/02/01/council-to-acquire-26-new-houses-in-laois-village-in-bid-to-alleviate-local-housing-need/

• A downsizer just off the main street in Dalkey for €595,000: Ketu would provide a good alternative to an apartment in Dublin’s most sought-after seaside suburb  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/residential/2023/02/02/a-downsizer-just-off-the-main-street-in-dalkey-for-595000/

• THE most up to date statistics from the Residential Property Price Register shows that there were 30 property sales in the Tralee area in December in transactions fetching a total of €6,796,125.  http://traleetoday.ie/heres-where-residential-property-was-sold-in-the-tralee-area-in-december/

• ‘We made enough from selling the house we renovated to buy a bigger one 500m away’  https://m.independent.ie/business/personal-finance/we-made-enough-from-selling-the-house-we-renovated-to-buy-a-bigger-one-500m-away-42327735.html

• Ryder Cup drives rental home prices up to €70,000: Owners of high-end properties are already pitching for rich fans ahead of the golf contest coming to Adare Manor in 2027  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/ryder-cup-drives-rental-home-prices-up-to-70-000-cqff9vlrj

• 15 Screenshots Of Roommate Drama That Have Me Desperately Looking For One-Bedroom Apartments: “I need you to be out of the flat on weekdays during normal working hours because I work from home, and I need the place to myself.” https://www.buzzfeed.com/ajanibazile/screenshots-roommate-drama

• 4 vintage lovers share where they hunt for treasures for their home https://www.image.ie/living/4-vintage-lovers-share-where-they-hunt-for-treasures-for-their-home-701642/amp

• Beloved property programme Home of the Year returns to screens for 9th series this month  https://www.tipperarylive.ie/news/arts—entertainment/1026685/beloved-property-programme-home-of-the-year-returns-to-screens-for-9th-series-this-month.html

• Tipp’s aristocrat postman gave it up for love: The story of how Ballycraggan House’s first owners were split by The Famine and by a marriage became a movie  https://m.independent.ie/life/home-garden/tipps-aristocrat-postman-gave-it-up-for-love-42325508.html

• Large property in need of work but with ‘superb potential’ on the market in Offaly for eye catching price  https://www.offalyexpress.ie/news/home/1027288/property-large-property-in-need-of-work-but-with-superb-potential-on-the-market-in-offaly-for-eye-catching-price.html

• Last-minute bid to prevent family home demolition ‘abuse of process’, council claims: Property, located outside Navan, Co Meath, built without planning permission 15 years ago https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2023/02/03/last-minute-bid-to-prevent-family-home-demolition-abuse-of-process-council-claims/

• Forget the Banshees, €145,000 Kerry farmhouse scene tops any movie set: Guide price is likely to attract local and overseas interest  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/residential/arid-41064284.html

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY NEWS

• Remote Working, Tech Slowdown, and Supply Surge Will Drive Dublin Office Vacancy to 2023 Peak   https://www.irishrealestate.news/remote-working-tech-slowdown-and-supply-surge-will-drive-dublin-office-vacancy-to-2023-peak/

• The Dublin office rental market recovered strongly in 2022 after the Covid-19 pandemic significantly impacted the take-up of space in the previous year.  https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2023/0203/1353648-office-take-up-recovers-but-sector-faces-challenges/

• Tech sector is still best bet for Dublin office market despite cuts, says Savills report https://m.independent.ie/business/tech-sector-is-still-best-bet-for-dublin-office-market-despite-cuts-says-savills-report-42327292.html

• HubSpot to cut 500 jobs worldwide: The sales and marketing software firm employs over 1,000 people in Dublin  https://m.independent.ie/business/technology/hubspot-to-cut-500-jobs-worldwide-42321063.html

• An Post signs for additional office space at Dublin’s tallest office building: State postal service provider’s new headquarters at the Exo in city’s north docklands will be capable of accommodating over 800 workers  https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/02/01/an-post-signs-for-additional-office-space-at-dublins-tallest-office-building/

• Centra plots expansion as sales approach €2bn: Musgrave-owned retailer sees inflation shifting consumer behaviours  https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2023/01/30/centra-plots-expansion-as-sales-approach-2bn/

• Some hotels are still owed up to €400k for housing refugees  https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41059715.html

•  IBM business campus in Dublin hits market for €80m: Damastown facility in Dublin 15 offers potential rental income of €2.8m from technology giant and scope for development https://www.irishtimes.com/property/commercial-property/2023/02/01/ibm-business-campus-hits-the-market-for-80m/

• Georgian building in offices with mews site comes to market: Offers over €3m are sought for the four-storey over basement building, while the property comes with an extensive site that includes an original coach house https://www.businesspost.ie/property/georgian-building-in-offices-with-mews-site-comes-to-market/

• Constant leasing activity at Swords Business Campus: HSE expands footprint by 335 square metres for a community healthcare network at the campus just outside the town  https://www.businesspost.ie/property/constant-leasing-activity-at-swords-business-campus/

• Retail giant Mango to open on Patrick St at former Quills site in boost for Cork City: The leading European fashion retailer is to set up shop at the former Quills’ outlet on St Patrick’s Street, which has been vacant since 2014  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-41062229.html

• New owner for Douglas Village Shopping Centre: Deal worth in the region of €20m understood to have been agreed with investment firm Urban Green Private  https://www.irishexaminer.com/property/commercial/arid-41063399.html

• Mount Carmel in Loughrea is set to get a new lease of life after being purchased by a local businessman for his global headquarters.  https://connachttribune.ie/mount-carmel-in-loughrea-set-to-get-new-lease-of-life/amp/

• Protected Longford building receives planning permission  https://www.shannonside.ie/news/protected-longford-building-receives-planning-permission-218155

• Sligo’s Summerhill College building could be put up for sale again: High Court decision follows protracted buyer agreement  https://m.independent.ie/regionals/sligochampion/news/sligos-summerhill-college-building-could-be-put-up-for-sale-again-42322040.html

• A previously rat-infested lighthouse on a tiny Irish island was transformed into a $5.2 million hotel with a sauna. Take a look around.  https://www.insider.com/clare-island-lighthouse-ireland-transformed-into-hotel-photos-2023-2?amp

INTERNATIONAL PROPERTY NEWS

• UK house price growth slowed last year, with buyers waiting to see if asking prices and mortgage rates fall further  https://www.forbes.com/uk/advisor/personal-finance/2023/01/30/house-prices-updates/

• Seaside town near London named one of best places to buy a home if you want to rent it out: If you’re looking to buy a home and rent it out, this is the best place to do it  https://www.mylondon.news/news/property/seaside-town-near-london-named-26081384.amp

• Well-established UK estate agency to close high street offices as the company adapts to ‘new ways of working’. https://propertyindustryeye.com/well-established-estate-agency-to-close-high-street-offices/

• Concerns raised over rising number of agreed sales collapsing  in the UK https://propertyindustryeye.com/concerns-raised-over-rising-number-of-agreed-sales-collapsing/

• ‘I knew I wanted to stay here for the rest of my life’: how London got its first LGBTQ+ retirement community: Steve Busby, a resident of Tonic Bankhouse. The idea is nothing new in other countries, but the UK has been slow to develop housing schemes for older LGBTQ+ people. Now it’s becoming apparent how many people want or need it  https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/feb/02/i-knew-i-wanted-to-stay-here-for-the-rest-of-my-life-how-london-got-its-first-lgbtq-retirement-community

• Britain’s new wave of million-pound homes — and they’re not where you think they are: Southeast England used to have a monopoly on seven-figure homes, but now you can find them from Solihull to Somerset  https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/britains-new-wave-of-million-pound-homes-and-theyre-not-where-you-think-they-are-g2t0s87w5

• Housing secretary Michael Gove has set a six-week deadline for UK developers to sign a government contract issued today committing them to fix their unsafe towers.  https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/01/30/gove-issues-six-week-ultimatum-to-sign-building-safety-contract/

• UK Construction output is now expected to fall by nearly 5% this year after economists at the Construction Products Association sharply downgraded forecasts  https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2023/01/30/construction-forecast-to-fall-by-nearly-5-this-year/

• ‘Chase foreign developers’ for cladding, UK Home Builders Federation says https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/chase-foreign-developers-for-cladding-home-builders-federation-says-80pjxt2kh

• Builders cop £120k fine after digger abuse: A building firm seen using a shovel bucket as a manlift has been fined £120,000 for health & safety offences.  https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/view/builders-cop-120k-fine-after-digger-abuse

• From the “Loneliest House in the World” to the smallest inhabited island, these homes are as beautiful as they are secluded https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/most-remote-homes

• International architecture studios including Adjaye Associates, Morphosis, Studio Fuksas and Coop Himmelb(l)au have been named in a Riyadh exhibition as working on The Line megacity in Saudi Arabia.  https://www.dezeen.com/2023/01/31/adjaye-associates-unstudio-morphosis-the-line/

• Google To Incur $500M In Costs Related To Office Space Downsizing  https://www.bisnow.com/national/news/office/google-to-incur-500m-in-costs-related-to-office-space-downsizing-117508

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/