Westmeath rates waiver scheme agreed in bid to revive empty properties

Westmeath County Council has announced a new rates waiver scheme as part of an effort to encourage the use of vacant commercial premises.

The initiative was approved by the elected members at the council’s statutory budget meeting in November, and will come into effect from January 1, 2026.

In order to be eligible for the scheme, the commercial property must have been vacant for a minimum of six months prior to the date of occupancy, and must be owned by the applicant or subject to a minimum 12-month lease.

Successful applicants will then receive a waiver of commercial rates equivalent to 75% of the rate demand in year one, 50% in year two and 25% in year three.

The scheme was devised by the council's economic and tourism committee, which is chaired by Athlone councillor Aengus O'Rourke.

The Fianna Fáil representative said the scheme is "designed to breathe new life into vacant commercial premises across the county" and to support local enterprise, town centres and employment.

"This is about turning empty buildings into active businesses and giving entrepreneurs another reason to invest in Westmeath. Vacant units don’t serve our towns or villages; thriving, active businesses do," said Cllr O'Rourke.

"By reducing the rates burden in the critical early years, we are sending a clear message that Westmeath County Council is open for business and serious about economic regeneration.

"Whether it’s a start-up, an expanding local business or someone taking a chance on a previously vacant premises, this scheme helps remove one of the barriers to getting doors open,” he added.

Full details of the scheme, including eligibility criteria and the online application form, are available on the council’s website at www.westmeathcoco.ie under the 'Rates Waiver Scheme' section.

Businesses and property owners with queries can contact the Rates Section by email at rates@westmeathcoco.ie or by phone on 044 93 38959.