Louth County Council has exceeded its social housing delivery target under the government’s Housing for All plan, reaching its goal a full year ahead of schedule. By the end of 2025, the council had delivered 1,608 new social homes, surpassing the target by 232 homes. Several developments are on track to provide an additional 565 social homes in 2026.
Cllr Seán Kelly, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, said:
“Surpassing our Housing for All targets ahead of schedule is a major milestone. It reflects the commitment of our team and partners to tackling the housing challenge head-on. We will continue working tirelessly to deliver homes and provide support that meet the needs of our communities.”
Deputy Paula Butterly expressed her delight at the progress, noting her ongoing advocacy for housing delivery and support. She welcomed the introduction of the single stage approval process, which she had raised on two occasions at the Housing Committee, and discussed directly with housing organisations to ensure concerns were addressed.
“This achievement by Louth County Council demonstrates what can be accomplished when housing delivery is prioritised. I am proud to see our county leading the way in providing secure, high-quality homes and support for families and individuals,” said Deputy Butterly. She has also championed government funding to tackle dereliction and supported the Living Cities Initiative, ensuring housing delivery is paired with the regeneration of communities.
Deputy Eirn McGreehan added:
“Housing is the number one priority of this Government. December saw a sharp rise in 3,065 home starts across the country, double the previous month. This is the result of key policy changes announced in the first year of Government, providing certainty and significant funding commitments.”
She acknowledged the progress made in Louth while stressing more must be done.
“The signs are encouraging, with over 6,500 units commenced in the last five years. However, we are aware this is not enough and must do more. The Government has taken several actions through Minister Browne’s changes, including the new Housing Action Plan. Having a place to call home is one of the most basic and essential needs in life. The plan also ensures relevant infrastructure like water, electricity, and roads are in place, supporting year-on-year delivery across the constituency. In Fianna Fáil we are committed to building on the foundations laid in Housing for All, and the new Housing Plan will maintain momentum for faster housing delivery.”
Beyond building homes, Louth County Council offers a wide range of housing supports to improve quality and security across the county. In 2025, the council supported 2,688 private tenancies through the Housing Assistance Payment, assisted 2,922 individuals and families via the Homeless Support Service, moved 562 people into long-term social housing, approved 371 grants for home repairs and adaptations, completed over 10,000 maintenance requests for council tenants, and upgraded 142 homes to higher energy standards.
The council also inspected over 2,000 private rental properties, supported 242 new council tenants through training initiatives, and approved 263 grants to bring vacant properties back into use.
David Conway, Chief Executive of Louth County Council, said:
“We are committed to delivering housing, but our work goes beyond building homes. We support people at every stage of their housing journey, from those at risk of homelessness to private renters and homeowners. By working with industry and individuals, we aim to raise standards, improve quality, and increase supply.”
Louth County Council is participating in Housing Focus, a national campaign coordinated by the Local Government Management Agency from 19th to 23rd January 2026, highlighting the housing options and supports available locally.
Ger Murphy, Director of Services, said:
“Housing is complex and requires a comprehensive response. This campaign raises awareness of the support available to the people of Louth and shows the work being done locally to meet housing needs.”
Follow the campaign on Louth County Council’s social media using #HousingFocus.
