The Green Post Ireland
Dublin, 2 November 2026 — A new proposal to reopen vacant shopfronts and support local businesses is being developed for 26 towns across Ireland.
Minister of State for Retail Alan Dillon wants local authorities, regeneration officers and Local Enterprise Offices to identify empty commercial premises and match them with businesses that meet the needs of local communities.
The initiative is intended to increase town centre footfall, support independent retailers and create sustainable employment.
How the Vacant Shopfront Scheme Would Work
Under the proposal, local authorities would work with regeneration officers and Local Enterprise Offices to identify suitable vacant properties.
They would then assess the types of businesses and services needed in each town and help connect potential operators with available premises.
Businesses participating in the initiative would be offered practical advice, financial mentoring and marketing assistance.
The proposal does not yet specify how much funding will be available, whether direct grants will be offered or when businesses could begin occupying vacant units.
Full List of 26 Towns Included in the Plan
The initiative is proposed for the following towns:
- Carlow: Tullow
- Cavan: Bailieborough
- Clare: Sixmilebridge
- Cork: Skibbereen
- Donegal: Milford
- Dublin: Lusk
- Galway: Gort
- Kerry: Milltown
- Kildare: Clane
- Kilkenny: Urlingford
- Laois: Rathdowney
- Leitrim: Carrick-on-Shannon
- Limerick: Abbeyfeale
- Longford: Longford town
- Louth: Dunleer
- Mayo: Killala
- Meath: Enfield
- Monaghan: Carrickmacross
- Offaly: Clara
- Roscommon: Strokestown
- Sligo: Tubbercurry
- Tipperary: Roscrea
- Waterford: Portlaw
- Westmeath: Moate
- Wexford: New Ross
- Wicklow: Blessington
Alan Dillon Says Empty Shops Must Be Brought Back Into Use
Dillon said vacant commercial premises represent missed opportunities for employment and local economic activity.
“Empty shopfronts do not create jobs, attract visitors, or support local communities,” he said.
“We need to turn vacant properties into places where businesses can start, grow and succeed.”
The minister’s proposal focuses on making existing commercial properties available to businesses rather than developing new retail premises.
Support for Small Businesses and Town Centres
Local Enterprise Offices would play a central role in supporting entrepreneurs interested in occupying vacant shops.
The proposed assistance includes business guidance, financial mentoring and marketing support.
Local authorities and regeneration officers would help identify suitable premises and determine which businesses could address gaps in local services.
The initiative is aimed at increasing commercial activity on main streets and supporting employment in the participating towns.
Scheme Still at Proposal Stage
The initiative has been proposed by the Minister of State for Retail, but the details of its implementation have not been announced.
The Government has not yet confirmed a dedicated budget, application process or timetable for the 26-town programme.
No specific businesses or vacant premises have been named for inclusion.
