Cork County Council Approves €526 Million Budget for 2026

Cork County Council has approved a €526 million budget for 2026, with increased investment in frontline services including roads maintenance, housing, libraries, and public conveniences. The budget includes no increase in commercial rates and introduces a new scheme to incentivise occupation of vacant properties in three towns.

The budget represents an increase on 2025 spending and reflects the Council's commitment to enhancing urban and rural communities across County Cork.

Housing receives significant attention, with €2.9 million allocated for day-to-day repairs, energy efficiency improvements, and bringing vacant housing stock back into use. The budget also includes €678,000 for burial ground expansions, alongside funding for piers, harbours, and climate action initiatives.

The Council's July decision to increase the Local Property Tax base rate by 15% will generate an additional €1.9 million annually. This funding is ringfenced for the county's Municipal Districts, delivering a €7.6 million investment between 2026 and 2029, equating to over €900,000 for each Municipal District during that period.

Commercial ratepayers will benefit from no increase in the Annual Rate on Valuation. A 3.5% rates incentive scheme will apply to all ratepayers with bills up to €7,000. A new rates waiver scheme targets long-term vacant properties in Kanturk, Mallow and Youghal, offering a 75% waiver in year one, 50% in year two, and 25% in year three, subject to eligibility criteria.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, said:

"This budget continues to have a strong emphasis on our communities and supporting the towns and villages across the county of Cork. It strikes a careful balance between growth and protecting our frontline public services. I particularly welcome the expansion of community wardens, the increased investment in housing and the efforts to encourage the use of vacant commercial properties."

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, added:

"This budget reflects Cork County Council's commitment to the sustainable development and enhancement of the county. It provides for the continued delivery of high-quality public services, while strategically investing in the infrastructure and initiatives that underpin economic growth and community wellbeing. It is a forward-looking budget that reflects prudent financial management and a clear vision for the County of Cork."

The Council also presented its Capital Programme for 2026 to 2028, representing a €1.42 billion investment in infrastructure over three years. Housing accounts for 39% of this investment, with roads taking 32%.

The Capital Programme is designed to meet objectives outlined in the Council's Corporate Plan 2025 to 2029, County Development Plan, and Local Economic and Community Plan. The programme is revised annually to reflect changing delivery capacity and priorities.