Galway City Council has approved a proposal to introduce a new rates waiver aimed at bringing long-term vacant commercial properties back into use across the city. Under the proposed Vacant Property Scheme, eligible businesses moving into premises empty for over a year would receive a 100% rates waiver in year one, followed by a 50% reduction in year two and 25% in year three, with full commercial rates applying from the fourth year. The decision was endorsed by Elected Members at the Council's plenary meeting on 12 October 2026.

The initiative is designed to stimulate the reuse of empty premises, help start-ups and growing firms, and boost activity in the city centre and local neighbourhoods. It will prioritise enterprises that add to the city's vibrancy and service mix, such as clothing and shoe retailers, bookshops, creative industries and circular-economy businesses, while certain outlets — including vape shops and phone shops — will be excluded. The measure forms part of broader efforts to address persistent commercial vacancy, increase footfall and strengthen the diversity and long-term sustainability of Galway's business ecosystem. Chief Executive of Galway City Council, Leonard Cleary said; "We welcome the support of Elected Members for a measure that will breathe new life into vacant commercial properties across Galway City. This scheme is about encouraging the right mix of businesses and retail, increasing activity and footfall, and supporting thriving streets and communities throughout the city. It also aligns closely with the new Galway Retail Strategy and emerging Economic Development Strategy developed jointly by Galway City Council and Galway County Council."

Helen Kilroy, Director of Finance said; "Opening a business in a property that has been vacant for more than a year requires commitment and significant investment. This waiver will provide qualifying businesses with meaningful support during the crucial early years, while also helping Galway City address commercial vacancy in a financially responsible way."

The Council will now draw up the detailed terms and eligibility criteria for the scheme, which remains dependent on the adoption of the necessary funding through the Budget 2027 process. Proposals for Budget 2027 also include expanding the Shop Front Enhancement Scheme for independent retail and hospitality, supporting works such as repairs, painting, bilingual signage, accessibility improvements, decluttering, interventions to protected structures and collaboration with local artists.

Comprehensive information on the Vacant Property Scheme — including who can apply and how — will be shared directly with Galway City businesses in the new year. For more on commercial rates, visit www.GalwayCity.ie/Services/Business-and-Economy/Business-and-Economy-Services/Commercial-Rates.