Major boost for Drogheda and Dundalk in Living Cities initiative

News that the Tánaiste has brought forward a proposal to Cabinet today to extend the Living City Initiative to both Drogheda and Dundalk, marking a significant milestone for town centre regeneration across County Louth, has been welcomed by Louth Fine Gael TD and Regional Spokesperson, Paula Butterly.

The expansion of the scheme will see Drogheda and Dundalk added to five new locations nationally, providing targeted tax reliefs aimed at tackling vacancy and dereliction in urban areas. Louth County Council has already submitted draft regeneration maps for both towns, with applications expected to open by the summer.

Under the enhanced scheme, commercial property owners will be able to avail of tax reliefs of up to €300,000 for eligible refurbishment works. The initiative will apply to buildings constructed before 1975 and has now been extended until 2030, offering long-term certainty for investors and property owners.

Deputy Butterly said the move represents a major step forward for Louth “This is a huge win for Drogheda, Dundalk, and the wider county. I have consistently called for both towns to be included in the Living City Initiative, and I am delighted to see this progress.

Read also: 'Nothing but bluster from the government on cost of living' - Louth's Ó Murchú

"These measures will help tackle dereliction, reduce vacancy, support local investment, and bring people back to live and work in our town centres.”

She added that the extension of the scheme builds on the momentum already underway to revitalise urban areas. “We now have the right incentives and investment framework to turn vacant and derelict buildings into vibrant homes and thriving businesses.

"Regenerating our town centres isn’t just about restoring buildings it’s about restoring community pride, safety, and vitality. Every unused building is an opportunity to strengthen our towns.”

Deputy Butterly also reaffirmed her commitment to securing further Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) allocations to complement the Living City supports: “I will continue to advocate for additional URDF investment to ensure Drogheda, Dundalk, and surrounding communities can fully benefit from this once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity.

"With the Living City Initiative now extended and expanded, Louth is well positioned to lead the way in delivering real, lasting town centre renewal.”