TV presenter and architect to address ‘Turning Vacant Properties into Cosy Homes’

Award winning architect and presenter of ‘The Great House Revival’ Hugh Wallace will be one of the keynote speakers at an exhibition, which will investigate turning vacant properties into vibrant homes.

Organised by Leitrim County Council, the information event showcasing the potential to transform vacant and derelict properties will take place this Thursday, June 19th from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon.

Open to homeowners, investors, or simply the curious, this event will provide attendees with the opportunity to meet the Leitrim Vacant Homes Team. Individuals who have already been through the journey of breathing new life into their once vacant, neglected properties will also be in attendance to relay their real-life experience of navigating the process.

Grants of up to €70,000 are available under the Croí Cónaithe Vacant Property Refurbishment Scheme to rejuvenate and renew these vacant and derelict properties.

The event will also explore practical ways to make your existing home warmer, more sustainable, and energy efficient. The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and the Sligo-Leitrim Energy Agency will be on hand to provide guidance, share upgrade solutions, and answer any questions you may have about improving your home’s energy performance. For more information on the different grants available through the SEAI see their website at https://www.seai.ie.

Keynote speaker on the day, Hugh Wallace said he was delighted to be involved in the event. “I’m absolutely delighted that Leitrim County Council is helping people discover the incredible potential in transforming vacant and derelict buildings into vibrant homes and businesses. Across Ireland, there are thousands of empty properties—particularly in rural towns—these were once the heart of the community and can be once again.

“With the support of the council and access to the Vacant and Derelict Homes Grant, people now have the tools and information they need to breathe new life into these buildings. I’ve said it a million times before and it still rings true—the most sustainable building is the one that’s already built. Leitrim County Council’s enthusiasm and ‘can-do’ attitude is truly commendable, and I’m very much looking forward to being part of their ‘Turning Vacant Properties into Cosy Homes’.

“If you’re thinking about doing up an old building, I strongly urge you to come along and see how your dream can become a reality.” Exhibition stands will be open from 3 p.m., followed by official welcome by Cathaoirleach Paddy O’Rourke at 5.30 p.m. followed by keynote speakers.

To register attendance log onto https://ecs.page.link/4vty3. There is no cost to attend and while pre-registration is recommended, walk-ins are welcome on the day.

For more information about ‘Turning Vacant Properties into Cosy Homes’’ see https://www.leitrim.ie and Leitrim County Council’s social media pages.

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