In The News New housing plan promises 300,000 new homes. Can it deliver?
Nov 14, 2025
Ellen Coyne, a political correspondent for the Irish Times, sheds light on the government's ambitious housing plan aimed at delivering 300,000 new homes by 2030. She discusses the unique aspects of the plan, such as its focus on infrastructure and social housing, while evaluating the challenges posed by skills shortages in construction. Coyne also explains the significance of local authorities purchasing homes and touches on the potential for bringing derelict properties back into use. Lastly, she addresses concerns about the plan's actual deliverability amidst rising homelessness.
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Eight-Point Framework To Ramp Up Supply
- The plan focuses on speeding up infrastructure, attracting investment, developing construction skills and tackling vacancy and dereliction.
- It also prioritises homelessness, social housing and an umbrella 'Starter Homes' approach to affordability.
Ambitious Target Built On A Low Base
- Completions are at a low base: about 30,330 homes in 2024, yet the government still targets 300,000 by 2030.
- Ministers stress past peak years (70,000) to justify ambition despite different historical contexts.
Use Targeted Funding To Unlock Sites
- Fund strategically: the plan adds €2.5bn to the Land Development Agency, totalling €8.75bn to unlock sites and cut bureaucracy.
- Pair capital with a Housing Activation Office to accelerate delivery and site activation.