• 08 May 2025

Survey Callout for Case Studies – Conversion of vacant/ underutilised buildings to dwellings or mixed use

About Vacant to Viable Project 

(Report into the re-use of existing buildings as dwellings) 

The housing and climate crises are the among the most urgent challenges that Ireland and its citizens face. Many vacant or derelict properties in our towns and cities can be revitalised through quality renovations. This can not only provide much needed homes but can also rejuvenate urban and rural areas. It is a cost-effective and sustainable way to create homes.

The Vacant to Viable Project is led by the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) in partnership with University College Dublin (UCD) and co-funded by Construct Innovate and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage (DHLGH).

This project involves a desktop study and significant engagement with stakeholders to gather robust evidence regarding the impact of the Building Regulations and their associated Technical Guidance Documents (TGDs) on the re-use of buildings. 

The aim is to unlock the potential of these underused buildings and support the government's commitment to sustainable development and decarbonisation with a set of practical and implementable recommendations to be published and presented to the Department by the end of 2025.

Call out from UCD, the IGBC, Construct Innovate and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

On behalf of UCD, the IGBC, Construct Innovate and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, would greatly appreciate participation of members to complete the survey by Monday 19 May.

Completing the survey should take about 5 minutes. 

Why?

  • so that we can survey case studies from around Ireland that have either failed or been successful in re-using existing buildings for homes;
  • so that we can study these case studies in detail and interview you if need be;
  • so that we can make recommendations to the Department of changes that might unlock the re-use of these building types.

Your insights and involvement will play a key role in identifying these barriers and hopefully unlocking thousands of buildings across Ireland for use as dwellings. 

Whether you're interested in joining workshops, interviews, or simply sharing your thoughts, we value your input and look forward to your participation. Once we have confirmed the list of case studies, we will contact the relevant respondents.

TAKE SURVEY

All enquiries can be directed to Triona Stack. Email: triona.stack@ucd.ie