Housing Infrastructure Fund to Unlock «Tens of Thousands» of Homes by 2030
A new €1 billion Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund received 138 applications to unlock zoned land for housing. The Housing Activation Office expects these projects to enable «tens of thousands» of homes, supporting the Government’s 300,000-home target by 2030. Longford County Council was the sole non-applicant.
The Housing Activation Office expects public infrastructure projects funded through a new €1 billion Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund to result in «tens of thousands» of homes over the coming years. This fund, open since January, received 138 applications from almost all local authorities, primarily for road and some water infrastructure.
Garret Doocey, head of the Housing Activation Office, stated that most projects met criteria and were at various stages, with decisions on successful applications expected «imminently». These projects are identified in development plans as essential for unlocking zoned land for housing, supporting the Government’s target of 300,000 homes by 2030.
Longford County Council was the only local authority not to apply for funding in the first round, which committee chair Micheál Carrigy found «very disappointing». Karen Kenny, senior planning adviser, noted the first call might have been quick for some, but future applications are anticipated.
Doocey emphasized that while land is being zoned, infrastructure gaps can delay progress. The Housing Activation Office, established in April 2025, aims to prevent infrastructure constraints from impeding housing momentum, moving towards a strategic national approach for large-scale investments.