A new survey aimed at owners of commercial properties in town and village centres across county Cork has been launched by Cork County Council. The survey seeks to evaluate the capacity and potential for converting ‘over the shop’ or ‘back of the shop’ spaces into much-needed residential accommodation.
The primary aim of the Council’s survey is to gather insights from property owners regarding the feasibility, challenges, and opportunities for converting underutilised spaces above or behind shops, and other commercial properties, into homes. The findings will inform future council strategies and help maximise the impact of government support schemes.
Encouraging people to live in our towns and villages is key to village vitality and town regeneration. In recognition of this, recent Government announcements indicate expanded financial supports in 2026 from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, to bring underutilised space above or behind existing commercial premises into residential use.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley said, “This survey is a key step in identifying ways to bring new life to our towns and villages. By working together, we can transform unused spaces into vibrant homes, support local communities, and increase housing supply in County Cork. We strongly encourage property owners to take part in the survey.”
Owners of commercial properties in town and village centres are invited to access the survey online via Cork County Council’s website www.corkcoco.ie or request a paper copy by contacting Cork County Council’s Town Regeneration Office at townregenerationoffice@corkcoco.ie or 021 4285317 / 021 4285397.
The survey, currently open, runs until April 30th.
