Ireland: Councils Made 1 Derelict Building CPO Application Last Month

Just one derelict building in Ireland was subject to a compulsory purchase order (CPO) application by local councils last month, according to data released by The Journal. The property is located in County Waterford.

The limited use of CPOs comes despite a nationwide program launched in April 2023 aimed at activating the use of vacant and derelict properties across Ireland. The Compulsory Purchase Order Activation Programme was designed to assist councils in acquiring properties when owners are uncooperative or cannot be located, with the goal of bringing these buildings back into use for communities.

The program facilitates collaboration between various council teams – including Vacant Homes Officers, Derelict Sites Teams, Town Regeneration Officers, and Social Housing Teams – to identify vacant properties, contact owners, offer support for refurbishment, and, as a last resort, utilize compulsory purchase powers. Funding for these acquisitions and subsequent redevelopment is available through the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, the Social Housing Investment Programme, and the Housing Finance Agency.

Compulsory purchase orders are a legal function in both the United Kingdom and Ireland, allowing specific bodies to obtain land or property without the owner’s consent, typically when a proposed development is deemed to be for public betterment. In Ireland, CPOs saw increased usage in the early 21st century due to extensive road upgrade projects under the National Development Plan, and continue to be used for railway and greenway projects. Individuals objecting to a CPO can appeal to the High Court.

Compensation rights associated with a CPO typically include the market value of the property, costs associated with relocation, and potentially additional payments. Those affected are likewise entitled to reimbursement for professional advice sought regarding the compensation process, such as from solicitors and surveyors. The Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland notes that acquiring authorities, such as local councils, are responsible for providing this compensation.

Councils participating in the CPO Activation Programme are required to set targets, record their progress, and report their results as part of the Delivering Homes, Building Communities plan. Data on achievements will be published annually.