ALMOST 2,600 new build social homes are at design or construction phase in Cork city and county, new figures show.

The latest Construction Status Report (CSR) details new-build social housing activity by each local authority. Nationally, 26,684 social homes were at various stages of design and construction at the end of June 2025.The reports shows that in Cork city and county, there are 2,597 social homes at various stages of design or construction the end of June 2025.

The delivery of new build social homes nationally in the first half of the year (1,804) is up almost 54% on the first six months of 2024 (1,174).

Welcoming the figures, Housing Minister James Browne said he remained committed to accelerating the delivery of social housing, moving towards a Single Stage Approval Process for housing schemes under €200million.

He added: ‘While today’s focus is on the numbers, it is ultimately about the people behind them. As Minister, I have the privilege of travelling throughout the country and witnessing first-hand the profound impact that a permanent, secure home has on individuals and families.

‘I want homes built at pace and at scale across all types, social, affordable, cost rental and private. We are now constructing more social housing than at any point since the 1970s, and I am determined to ensure this progress continues.’