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Living Over the Shop Scheme

Introduction

A new Living over the Shop Scheme (LOTS) was announced for certain streets in the five county boroughs in 1998. This ran from 1999 to 2004 before being extended until July 2006.  The revised tax incentive scheme, which is subject to EU approval, aimed to build on the progress achieved under a similar scheme introduced in 1994 in the five county boroughs. The new LOTS scheme seeks to develop an effective model for tackling the problem of vacant upper storey space in the streets to be targeted under the scheme.   

The aims and objectives of the revised scheme are to:

1. Apply an integrated package of tax reliefs to secure investment to tackle the problem of vacant upper storey space over commercial premises in certain streets in the five county borough areas and, in so doing, provide additional residential units in areas suitable and attractive for such development; 
2. Achieve greater economic use of such premises with a view to relieving the pressure on housing supply particularly for rented residential accommodation;
3. Promote sustainable development patterns and assist in fostering a ‘living’ urban environment in the targeted streets; and
4. Promote more sustainable use of existing building stock and infrastructure and relieve pressure for greenfield development.   

Designated LOTS Streets in Cork City

• Shandon Street
• Cook Street
• Washington Street
• MaCurtain Street
• Marlboro Street
• Pembroke Street
• Bridge Street
• French Church Street
• Georges Quay
• Great William O’ Brien St.
• Cornmarket Street
• Douglas Street
• Parnell Place
• Castle Street
• Barrack Street
• Oliver Plunkett Street
• North Main Street
• Princes Street

Protected Structures and Conservation

Under the LOTS guidelines, Local Authorities were urged to actively encourage and promote conservation of premises in the context of the Living over the Shop Scheme, given that the primary objective of the scheme is to exploit the potential of vacant space in existing buildings. 

Current Status

A total of 45 applications were received under the LOTS scheme of which 4 were invalid or withdrawn etc.  A total of 31 have received Final Certification from the City Council leading to an additional 80 residential units being made available in the city centre.  A further 8 applications can still avail of the incentives offered.  The scheme finished in July 2006 although eligible schemes within the system can still be processed provided prospective future applicants had submitted a valid planning application to Cork City Council by the 31st December 2004.