Decision due this month on Simon Community plans for 21 homes in Dundalk

A decision is due this month from Louth County Council on a planning application by Dublin Simon Community, where the organisation is seeking to construct 21 one-bedroom residential units, within a single three storey block at Barrack Street in Dundalk.

Dublin Simon Community applied for planning permission in August 2025, for a development at the site of the former Labour Exchange Site, seeking the go ahead for the demolition of the existing derelict properties 63, 65 and 67 Barrack Street to facilitate the construction of 21 one-bedroom residential units, within a single three storey block.

The planning application also provides for items including a single storey utility and plantroom building, comprising ESB substation, switch room, water services and bin store, located to the northeast of the site, and a low profile, combined bulk storage and secured bicycle store. It also includes boundary treatment proposals, landscaping, roads, drainage and lighting treatments across the site.

A significant number of submissions objecting to the planning application have been lodged with Louth County Council, including from residents and local businesses in the area.

Among the reasons for objecting to the application are antisocial behaviour, health and safety risks, and a negative impact on the quality of life and privacy for local residents.

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Louth County Council sought further information on the proposed development in September, with significant further information being submitted on 3 March. A decision is now due on the application by 30 March.

This is the second application submitted by Dublin Simon Community for a development at this site. In a June 2024 application, the organisation sought permission for the demolition of the existing derelict properties to facilitate a development, of 27 residential units over two blocks. 

A significant number of submissions objecting to that application had also been made. A decision had been due from Louth County Council on the application by 5 June 2025 but the application was withdrawn on 29 May. It is not known why the application was withdrawn.