Former pubs that are being converted into residential units will be exempt from planning permission, under new regulations signed by the Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien (pictured).

The move is aimed at reducing the number of vacant sites, and increasing housing supply in urban areas

The new exemption is contained in an extension of Planning and Development Regulations 2018 that allow a change of use of certain vacant commercial premises to residential use – such as ‘above shop’ living.

Extension to 2025

The Department of Housing says that almost 1,400 homes have been provided through planning exemptions since 2018.

The regulations signed today (25 February) extend this exemption to 2025.

In order to qualify, a pub’s licence must have lapsed, while there is also a limit of nine residential units for any development.

“This new planning regulation will ease the planning burden for those who want to convert small and medium-sized pubs that are no longer viable, and have ceased to operate, into residential housing,” the minister said.