Louth County Council is encouraging entrepreneurs and start up businesses to apply for its 2026 Commercial Rates Waiver Scheme, aimed at supporting new enterprises while bringing long term vacant commercial properties back into use across the county.
The initiative is designed to reduce the financial pressure on new businesses setting up in premises that have been vacant for more than 12 months. Eligible applicants can benefit from a phased waiver on commercial rates over a three year period, offering significant savings during the critical early years of trading. Businesses approved under the scheme will receive a full rates waiver in year one, followed by a 50 per cent reduction in year two and a 25 per cent reduction in year three. From year four onwards, full commercial rates will apply.
Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Seán Kelly, said the scheme plays an important role in breathing new life into empty units and strengthening local town centres. He said it provides a timely opportunity for anyone considering starting a business, offering meaningful financial assistance while helping to turn unused spaces into active and welcoming places that support jobs, community and economic growth.
Director of Service and Deputy Chief Executive of Louth County Council, Thomas McEvoy, said high costs are often the biggest obstacle facing new businesses. He said the rates waiver is a targeted and practical support that gives entrepreneurs the time and flexibility they need to establish themselves. By encouraging the reuse of long vacant premises, he added, the scheme delivers benefits not just for business owners but for towns and communities across Louth.
The council hopes the scheme will attract a wide range of new and diverse businesses into town centres, helping to reduce vacancy levels and increase footfall in local areas.
Applications for the 2026 Commercial Rates Waiver Scheme are now open. Full details on eligibility and the application process are available at consult.louthcoco.ie.
Queries can also be made by emailing rateswaiver@louthcoco.ie.
