The Limerick Mayoral Programme 2024-2029 outlines a clear vision and objective to address the immediate housing shortage through the deployment of short-term, modular “SMART” (Short-term Modular Affordable Rental Transition) housing solutions, which will provide affordable rental options as a transitional measure on short life sites as they await the permanent long-term housing solutions.
What is Smart Housing?
Short-term Modular Affordable Rental Transition housing is designed to:
- Deliver thousands of homes
- Focus is on public and private sector key workers
- Target unmet demand primarily from key workers and 1-2 person households.
The Goal
Address housing shortages with SMART housing.
The goal is to begin by activating state lands and establish infrastructure that enables future expansions, ensuring that new residents can integrate into existing or developing communities promptly. This model will also work with large employers/educational institutions who are prepared to invest in land activation for their workforce/students.
Why Limerick Needs It
- Figures show that 11,919 additional homes are needed from 2022 to 2028 in Limerick City to help with housing solutions and the increase in supply required
- SMART is an additional solution to the current housing issues Limerick and Ireland face
- Statistically 55.3% of the demand for housing solutions are for 1-2 person units
- SMART Housing hopes to deliver an additional option for that 1-2 person housing shortfall
- SMART can offer discounted alternatives with no compromise on quality or safety.
Key Focus
The aim is to deliver up to several 1,000 units depending on demand in the local housing market being unmet by traditional methods of delivery in the short to medium term.
- State Lands Activation: Build infrastructure now as part of plans to allow for permanent solution in time
- Employer & Institution Partnerships: Collaborate to provide housing at scale for workforce and students
- Event-Driven Housing: Use upcoming events (e.g., Ryder Cup) to fast-track modular accommodations that can later transition into Limerick’s housing stock.
Who is Smart Housing For?
This housing programme addresses a clear and urgent challenge, providing affordable homes for those who are currently priced out of the city’s rental market. While this project focuses on smaller households, other council-led initiatives continue to support families and older persons’ housing. Together, these efforts form part of a broader, inclusive housing strategy for all of Limerick’s citizens.
Better Housing, Better Value, Better Communities
The Mayor’s guiding principles are simple: Better housing, better value, better communities. This is not market-led; it is public-led, and that makes all the difference. The Smart programme is a commitment to public good over private profit. The mission is to deliver high-quality, sustainable housing that prioritizes affordability, wellbeing, and long-term community benefit.
A Model That Gives Back
Limerick City and County Council currently operate on a cost-recoverable model. This means that any proceeds generated from rents are reinvested directly back into the community. This creates a virtuous cycle: it helps make rents more affordable over time and allows the enhancement of community amenities for the benefit of everyone. This unique model ensures that the economic benefits of every SMART scheme are passed on directly to the residents and the wider neighbourhood, creating lasting social value for Limerick.
Modular Prototype Launch at Arthur's Quay Park
Two cutting-edge modular housing prototypes will be available for viewing from 4th September to 31st October at Arthur’s Quay Park, Limerick, marking a step forward in Limerick’s response to Ireland’s housing crisis.
Developed and installed by VBC (Volumetric Building Companies), the prototypes are part of an initiative championed by Mayor of Limerick, John Moran to accelerate the delivery of affordable rental homes for workers and individuals locked out of the rental market.
Prototypes on Display:
- A 23 m² home with shared amenities including a communal living and dining area
- A 32 m² self-contained home.
Have Your Say
The public will have an opportunity to give feedback online here at or in person at the Arthur’s Quay Park Prototypes on the following dates:
- 5th - 13th September
- Weekdays (Mon–Fri) @ 12pm - 4pm
- Saturday 6th & Saturday 13th September @ 12pm - 4pm
- Week of 15th September
- Tuesday 16th @ 12pm - 4pm
- Thursday 18th @ 12pm - 4pm
- Saturday 20th @ 12pm - 4pm
- From Monday 22nd September to Friday 31st October
- Weekdays (Mon–Fri) by appointment only. Email SmartHousing@limerick.ie to make an appointment.
- Saturdays 27th Sept - 25th Oct @ 12pm - 4pm
If you would like to explore any aspect of this project further with Limerick City and County Council, please contact SmartHousing@limerick.ie