Scheme will assist with projects to refurbish, repair and upgrade business frontages across South West Inner City neighbourhooods
10.02.26
Dublin City Council South Central Area Office now invites applications to the Shopfront Improvement Scheme 2026.
The scheme is open to businesses and commercial premises across the South West Inner City areas of The Liberties, Kilmainham, Inchicore, Islandbridge and Parkgate Street, Dolphin’s Barn, Rialto and Clanbrassil Street-SCR.
The scheme offers support funding for projects to refurbish or renew shopfronts, as well as certain works to upper floors within the Thomas Street & Environs Architectural Conservation Area which help to protect and conserve heritage features. Shopfront ‘greening’ is also encouraged, as are measures to improve access for all to shops and premises.
Qualifying works include:
Applications are now invited until 26th June 2026. Awards are made subject to available funds. Details of the Scheme and an Application Form are included below.
For further details on the scheme or if you’d like to discuss a project, please contact stephen.coyne@dublincity.ie or telephone (01) 222 5180 or 083 1949009.
An attractive shop front showcases your business but is also important to the overall attractiveness of your street a key driver of footfall to an area.
Shop signage should be limited:
For the most part one main fascia sign and, where permitted, one projecting signage to be located at fascia level. However, it is Dublin City Council policy under the Thomas Street & Environs ACA not to permit any projecting signage on streets like Thomas Street, Francis Street and Meath Street and to encourage the removal of existing projecting signage.
Signage should be of good quality:
Traditional painted lettering or individual fixed mounted lettering is preferred for signage. Plastic fascias, light boxes, printed foam boards and canvas banners are not allowed.
Signage should be at street level:
The addition of high-level signage (i.e. from first floor up) is inconsistent with the objectives of the Thomas Street & Environs ACA and will not be permitted. The removal of old high-level signage is supported (and you may benefit from a higher grant level if this is facilitated).
Choice of colour is important:
The use of garish or visually strident colours across the entire shopfront is not supported and careful use of colour, that works in harmony with the materials of the building, is encouraged. Matt paint finishes are generally more durable and work best with other materials such as brick or masonry.
Open and engaging shopfronts, even after dark:
Security shutters should be internally-mounted wherever possible, and a clear and attractive shop window maintained at all times. Lighting fixtures should be attractive and good quality. Architectural lighting to illuminate upper floors is encouraged.
Clutter-free for a tidier street:
The removal of redundant wiring, alarm boxes and utilities on premises is encouraged and requested under this scheme.
