Social home numbers still on the rise in Galway
The state delivered over 300 new social homes across the city and county last year – part of what they proclaimed as a record year for the delivery of social housing across the country, despite the continuing growth of the accommodation crisis.
Statistics published today by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage show that 9,089 new-build social homes were delivered nationally in 2025, the highest level of delivery since the foundation of the State.
A total of 209 new-build social homes were completed across the county in 2025.
This included 140 homes delivered directly by Galway County Council, 38 homes delivered by Approved Housing Bodies, and 31 homes delivered through the Part V planning process. A further 133 new-build social homes were delivered in Galway city during the year.
And while that represents progress, it pales against the backdrop of an ever-growing demand – for social homes, private houses, and rentals.
Over 9,000 new-build social homes delivered in 2025 – the highest level of delivery on record, according to Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne.
Overall, in 2025, 9,089 new-build social homes were delivered, an increase of 1,256 homes (16%) compared with 2024.
“We are now seeing an unprecedented level of delivery of new-build social homes, with 2025 representing the largest number of new build social homes constructed since the foundation of the State. This is serious momentum,” said Minister Browne.
But these homes are not just units; they represent security, stability and opportunity for thousands of households
“This reflects the scaling up of local authority building programmes, increased output from Approved Housing Bodies and the acceleration of construction activity across the country.
“But these homes are not just units; they represent security, stability and opportunity for thousands of households.
“While this is a record year, we are driving on. The focus now is on sustaining and expanding this delivery, scaling further and ensuring that more people benefit from access to high-quality, secure homes,” he added.
Galway East TD and Minister of State Seán Canney also welcomed the publication of new figures.
“It’s really positive to see a record number of new social homes delivered nationally last year, and that progress is being felt here in Galway as well,” he said.
“In Galway County, 209 new social homes were completed in 2025 through a mix of local authority building, Approved Housing Bodies and Part V developments. Each of those homes means a person or family now has the security of a place they can call their own.
“It’s also encouraging to see a further 133 homes delivered by Galway City Council.
“Housing remains one of the biggest issues facing many families, so maintaining and increasing delivery like this is absolutely critical in the years ahead,” he added.
The figures show that 2025 marked a significant increase in delivery, with 1,256 more social homes built compared with 2024 - a rise of 16% year on year.
He said the increase in delivery reflects the growing role of local authorities, Approved Housing Bodies and the wider construction sector in bringing forward new housing developments across the country.