Over 1,800 applications received for just 85 cost‑rental homes in Cork

More than 1,800 households have applied for only 85 cost‑rental homes across Cork, giving an average of 56 applicants per property.

Figures released by Cork County Council show 1,862 applications for the limited cost‑rental stock, meaning fewer than 5 % of applicants were successful. The scheme targets middle‑income families whose incomes exceed social housing limits but who cannot afford private‑sector rents.

Demand by area

The strongest demand was in Carrigtwohill, with 268 applications for eight homes in phase 1 and 683 applications for 12 homes in phase 2. Ringaskiddy saw 398 applications for 17 homes, Midleton 199 for ten homes, and Youghal 105 for eight homes. West Cork recorded 159 applications for 20 homes in Bandon and 50 applications for ten homes in Bantry.

By contrast, Kanturk received 20 applications for 28 homes, the only scheme where supply exceeded demand.

In the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme, 1,254 applicants sought 266 homes, with Carrigaline attracting the most interest – 229 applicants for 30 homes.

East Cork Social Democrats councillor Eamonn Horgan described the figures as “stark but not surprising”, noting that despite a surge in new developments, the proportion of affordable and cost‑rental homes remains very small.

Source: Irish Examiner. Photo: Craig Adderley / Pexels.