Housing projects started in 2024 being completed more slowly, warns department

Housing minister James Browne said 'there’s a lot of conflicting reports and data' and that there would be a better sense of the pipeline for housing delivery in the next six months

The Department of Finance said there will need to be a further strengthening in commencements and planning approvals in the first half of 2026. Picture: PA

Housing projects started in 2024 are being completed at a slower rate than those commenced in previous years, the Department of Finance has warned.

In its February housing update, the department said there are still risks in the near-term housing outlook, highlighting that projects started in 2024 are being completed more slowly.

It said this slowdown in completion rates could be due to a “spreading of capacity or fewer active developments”.

The update says there will need to be a further strengthening in commencements and planning approvals in the first half of 2026 to ensure there is a delivery pipeline “out to 2027/28”.

Asked if he was concerned about a possible slowdown in housing delivery, housing minister James Browne said he is keeping a “close eye” on the data.

“There’s a lot of conflicting reports and data out there,” Mr Browne said.

In its overall assessment, the Department of Finance said the high level of commencements in 2024, aided by the Government’s development levy waiver,  would lead to a “steady pipeline" for 2026.

Mr Browne said there would be a “better sense” of the pipeline for housing delivery in the next six months.

• Tadgh McNally, Political Reporter