Dereliction crackdown! 11 Longford properties hit with levies in just over a month

Efforts have intensified to tackle derelict and vacant properties, with a total of 11 properties in Longford being subject to derelict site levies so far this year.

Longford County Council say they will continue to prioritise this area of concern as neglected buildings have a direct impact on communities, affecting safety, appearance, and local confidence.

Read More: Longford residents living in fear over ‘persistent anti-social behaviour’ at abandoned factory 

The council is currently working to transform unused sites into assets that contribute to thriving towns and villages with initial focus on town centres. 

Under the Derelict Sites Act 1990, Longford's local authority can, and do, avail of a clear set of tools to address problematic sites.

These include:

• Issuing notices requiring owners to clean up or improve their properties
• Taking legal action where owners fail to comply
• Using Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs) when necessary to ensure long‑term dereliction does not continue unchecked 
• The Council’s approach combines enforcement with support. The aim is not only to address dereliction but also to encourage renewal, encourage owners to take action, and bring properties back into use, whether for housing, business, or community benefit

Property owners who wish to transform their vacant or derelict houses under their ownership can avail of grants to help them do so.

Last year, exactly €2,935,664 was paid out under the scheme, which is designed to help homeowners bring vacant and derelict properties back into residential use. 

Read More: Nearly €3 million in Vacant Property grants paid to Longford homeowners

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said the enforcement action taken so far has made a real difference. 

“People want to see action, and Longford County Council is delivering it,” Cllr Murtagh said. “Tackling dereliction is central to building places where people feel safe, welcome, and proud to live. I want to acknowledge the commitment shown by Council staff and by local communities who continue to support renewal efforts across the county.”

Longford County Council is also encouraging residents to report derelict or vacant sites so that they can be assessed and, where appropriate, added to the Derelict Sites Register. The register, along with maps of prescribed areas, is available on the Council’s website.

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