Irish Councils Apply for 12 CPOs in April, Highest Since April 2025

Irish local authorities applied to An Coimisiún Pleanála for Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) on 12 properties in April, the highest number since The Journal began tracking these figures in April 2025. This surge reflects the government's increased focus on tackling dereliction to address Ireland's housing crisis.

Six councils made these applications. Laois County Council applied on April 1 for a 0.15-hectare vacant site in Rathdowney, valued at €45,000, with a decision due by August 31. Roscommon County Council resubmitted an application on April 3 for «Hilltop House» in Castlerea, previously deemed invalid. Kildare County Council applied on April 14 for a 1.7-acre derelict parcel with two properties in Castledermot, with a decision due by September 14. This aligns with Kildare's plan to revitalize Castledermot by addressing dereliction.

Waterford City and County Council made three applications on April 16: for a three-bedroom property at Blynd Quay, Passage East (sold for €15,000 in 2021, valued at €40,000); a property at 6 Barrack Street, Tallow, valued at €70,000; and «The Coach House» on Wolfe Tone Road, Dungarvan, valued at €50,000. Decisions for these are due by July 23.

Mayo County Council submitted five applications: three on April 24 for properties at 29, 31, and 32 Highland Park, Kilkelly (32 valued at €70,000); a fourth on April 30 for 30 Highland Park; and a fifth on April 24 for 11 Hazel Court, Ballinrobe. All Mayo cases are due for decision by August 6.