Cork City Council Launches €200,000 Grant to Revitalise St Patrick's Street

Cork City Council has opened applications for a €200,000 fund aimed at improving the appearance of buildings on the city's main shopping street, with grants of up to €10,000 available to property owners.

The City Centre Façade Improvement Grant 2026 will provide financial support to owners of properties on St Patrick's Street to enhance their building frontages, creating a more attractive city centre and boosting economic vibrancy.

The fund, overseen by the City Council's City Centre Development and Operations Directorate, was agreed at the council's December 2025 meeting and is now accepting applications.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Fergal Dennehy, welcomed the scheme's launch.

"This is a hugely positive step in supporting building owners and businesses to refresh the heart of the city. This Cork City Council initiative will help brighten façades, enhance the overall streetscape, and create a more inviting environment for shoppers, workers, and visitors alike. It's exactly the type of practical, visible action that shows Cork City Council's commitment to maintaining a vibrant and attractive city centre."

Chief Executive of Cork City Council, Valerie O'Sullivan, encouraged property owners to take part.

"By taking part, property owners on Cork's prime retail street can play an active role in the ongoing renewal of the city centre, helping to strengthen pride of place and contribute to a more welcoming urban experience for all. With Cork City Council placing a renewed focus on the city centre, this scheme is a great opportunity to be part of the positive change happening right now."

Property owners located between St Augustine's Church at the southern end of St Patrick's Street and Lavitt's Quay/Merchant's Quay at the northern end are eligible to apply.

The scheme offers two funding elements. The St Patrick's Street Painting Grant provides up to €5,000, or 25% of costs excluding VAT, whichever is lower, for improving building façades through painting and minor external works.

The St Patrick's Street Shopfront Grant offers the same funding level for upgrading and restoring shopfronts at street level, encouraging businesses to adopt traditional designs that enhance the historic streetscape.

Business owners may apply for funding under both elements for a single property. Applications will also be accepted where property owners are receiving other grant aid, such as the vacant property grant.

Cork City Council has arranged for trade partners to offer exclusive discounts to successful applicants on painting materials and certain equipment to reduce overall costs. The council is also waiving scaffolding and hoarding fees to encourage participation.

Full terms and conditions, along with application forms, are available on the council's website.

The closing date for applications is Thursday 26th March 2026. Applications will be assessed on a case-by-case basis based on value for money and positive impact on the St Patrick's Street streetscape.

Successful applicants are expected to be notified before April 2026.