‘Tuath Blossoms’ – Tuath Housing plants nearly 300 trees in the northeast region

This winter, Tuath Housing Association proudly launched the Tuath Blossoms Initiative in the Northeast of Ireland, transforming communal green spaces across Dundalk, Drogheda, and Navan.

The project focused on planting a diverse array of indigenous plants, shrubs, and over 60 trees across six developments:

  • Cois Cuain, Dundalk
  • Church Street Apartments, Dundalk
  • The Demesne, Dundalk
  • Liscorrie, Drogheda
  • Castleguard, Ardee
  • Dunville,Navan

These environmentally friendly upgrades aim to enhance the local environment, boost biodiversity, and create vibrant community spaces.

The initiative is already making an impact, with residents praising the transformation. The Chairperson of the Liscorrie Residents Committee noted, “The additional planting has made such a difference on our estate, and the trees will look spectacular, especially in April and May when the cherry blossoms come into full bloom.”

The Tuath Blossoms Initiative is a significant step towards creating sustainable, green spaces that benefit both the environment and the community. With plans to extend this project to other developments nationwide in the new year, the Tenant Engagement Team is excited to continue fostering biodiversity and community spirit across Ireland. This initiative is a perfect example of how thoughtful planting can make a lasting impact.

Tuath hosts sustainable events ahead of the festive season

Tuath holds warm clothes swap and toy exchange at De Verdon Place to help residents prepare for the winter months in new community space

As part of ‘Sustainable September,’ Tuath held a clothing exchange in De Verdon Place, Dublin 17. Tuath staff and residents came together to give a new lease of life to pre-loved clothes by exchanging clothing items and creating a new sustainable wardrobe. The focus was on winter clothes such as coats, scarves and wooly hats ahead of the winter months.

In November, residents came together to trade pre-loved toys and household items for Tuath’s first ever toy swap event, also held at De Verdon Place on the Malahide Road. Blending festive cheer with a commitment to sustainability, the initiative encouraged residents to donate pre-loved toys in great condition, creating a shared pool of items that could find new homes just in time for Christmas. From stuffed animals to building blocks, the donations reflected the community’s generosity and creativity. Many families from the area took home something new to play with, while ensuring that used toys found a new home and didn’t go to waste. The initiative was organised with the aim of promoting sustainability in the community, while also helping families to plan and budget in the run-up to Christmas.


Initiatives like these reduce our carbon footprint by promoting the sustainable use of clothes, toys and household items. By reusing and repurposing, we collectively reduce waste and embrace the idea that meaningful gifts don’t always have to come wrapped in shiny, brand-new packaging.

Beyond the environmental benefits, there are social sustainability advantages to such initiatives. These swaps strengthen bonds in De Verdon Place and neighbouring developments by offering an opportunity to come together, share resources, and create a joyful festive experience that is kind to both the planet and wallet.

To learn more about Tuath’s mission to create a more sustainable future, visit the Sustainability page on our website.

https://tuathhousing.ie/esg-sustainability/

Irish Council for Social Housing Finance & Development Conference 2024

Tuath Housing was pleased to attend and participate in the Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) Finance & Development Conference 2024 in Sligo this week. 

Tuath was shortlisted for the  ICSH Social Impact Award 2024 at the ICSH Conference, while members of staff from across the organisation spoke on important topics in the Irish social housing sector such as delivery, sustainability and resident involvement across the two-day event. 

On Wednesday 16th October, Director of Property Services Nick Sheward and Senior Sustainability Coordinator Jennifer Whitty pitched the Circular Reno Project for the ICSH Social Impact Challenge 2024. Tuath was shortlisted for this award, which highlights projects that promote Environmental, Social and Governance practice in housing and communities.  

Tuath is an Irish partner for this EU project which seeks to develop modular bio-based construction materials from Agri-crops for application in modular construction retrofit. The pilot Irish home in this project was completed in July 2024, and Tuath plans to similarly retrofit a further ten homes throughout Ireland with this project.  

Further details on this project can be found here and here

 

In parallel sessions across the conference, further Tuath representatives spoke on Wednesday afternoon. Aileen Gallagher, Head of New Business and Delivery at Tuath, explored challenges and opportunities for social housing providers in Ireland during the ‘Meeting Cost Rental and Affordable Housing Demand’ panel. Kate Joyce, Head of Sustainability and Strategic Projects, discussed Tuath’s commitment to embedding sustainability into all aspects of our organisation throughout the afternoon’s ‘Embedding Social & Environmental Best Practice into Development’ discussion. 

Aileen Gallagher, Head of New Business & Development, speaks at 2024 ICSH Conference 'Meeting Cost Rental and Affordable Housing Demand' panel

Kate Joyce, Head of Sustainability & Strategic Projects, discusses sustainability at Tuath during 'Embedding Social & Environmental Best Practice into Development' panel

On Thursday morning, Nick Sheward, Director of Property Services, talked about how we put residents’ experiences at the heart of our work at Tuath during the ‘Safeguarding Communities Over Commodities’ event. He spoke about how services at Tuath are resident-led and how we empower and connect with residents to ensure their voices are heard.  

Nick Sheward, Director of Construction & Property Services, during 'Safeguarding Communities Over Commodities' panel
 Tuath would like to thank the Irish Council for Social Housing who organised this conference, providing an opportunity to connect with partners, stakeholders and colleagues across the Irish social housing sector. 
 

Tuath welcomes EU partners for Circular Reno visit

Tuath and KORE Retrofit recently welcomed partners from the EU’s Interreg North-West Europe Circular Reno project for a two-day visit to Ireland. 

The Circular Reno project seeks to develop bio-based materials from local agri-crops to retrofit homes. 

During the visit, staff from our Sustainability and Property Services teams hosted a partner day in the Fumbally Stables, Dublin 8. It was a chance for partners to get to know one another better, share status updates on their projects and learn about key innovators in bio-based materials.

They also discussed topics including communication strategies, regulation and insurance, and carbon credits. 

The following day, programme partners visited retrofit sites across Westmeath and Offaly, a valuable opportunity to see real examples of how low-carbon construction materials are being used to improve existing homes. 

Learn more about the first Irish home retrofit to be completed as part of the Circular Reno project here.

Tuath Housing celebrates launch of 2023 ESG Report

Tuath highlights its commitment to Environmental, Social and Governance principles with inaugural sustainability report.

Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council, officially launched Tuath’s 2023 ESG Report -‘Delivering sustainable homes for a better tomorrow’, at Tuath’s Dublin Office on James Place East.

Taking place during World Green Building Week,  the launch was attended by government officials, statutory bodies,  and professionals in the sustainability, social and affordable housing sectors.

The report outlines Tuath’s approach to sustainable development, incorporating the key pillars of sustainability: environment, social and governance and how they relate to the Sustainable Development Goals. The publication of the report follows the integration of a new strategic objective ‘A Sustainable Future’ into the organisation’s strategic business plan in 2023. As one of Ireland’s largest approved housing bodies, managing nearly 14,000 homes, Tuath aims is to embed sustainability across all aspects of its operations and to play a role in shaping the sustainable development of the AHB sector.

Tuath Housing Association’s Head of Sustainability, Kate Joyce, speaking at the launch of Tuath’s ESG Report 2023

The report highlights some of Tuath’s key ESG achievements to date.  76% of Tuath owned homes have an A+ BER rating while 85% have a minimum of B2 BER rating. In addition Tuath has invested in home energy upgrades for over 400 homes to date, resulting in warmer, more comfortable and energy efficient homes for our tenants.

Tuath is actively working to reduce its embodied carbon footprint and in 2023, 41% of Tuath home delivery was by way of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) while Tuath is proud to be an Irish partner in an EU-funded project ‘Circular Reno’- a project which seeks to develop bio-based materials for construction and retrofit. In addition, Tuath has led in the refurbishment, regeneration and repurposing of derelict buildings, demonstrated to save up to 73% embodied carbon compared with a demolition and rebuild. Award winning projects such as Springville House in Cork City, saw the conversion of a vacant office building into age-friendly housing and showcases how Tuath is innovating to provide sustainable housing solutions.

Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council, speaking at the launch of Tuath’s ESG Report 2023

A highlight for Tuath under the social sustainability pillar was the investment of  €750,000 in community enhancement and tenant engagement, as well as the hosting of over 500 community events throughout 2023. In 2023, Tuath also received a Bronze Award from the Irish Centre for Diversity for commitment to, equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Tuath acknowledges the significant challenges facing the AHB sector as nonprofits, in accessing funding for retrofits and meeting the costs associated with zero emission building standards for new builds from 2030. In that regard, Tuath is working with its Housing Alliance partners, and engaging with public sector stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the challenges in raising private or public finance and to identify and assess a full range of potential solutions.

L-R: CEO of the Irish Green Building Council Pat Barry, Tuath’s Head of Sustainability Kate Joyce and Sean O’Connor, Chief Executive of Tuath Housing Association, at the launch of Tuath’s ESG Report 2023

Pat Barry, CEO of the Irish Green Building Council, who launched the report today, commented: “I’m honoured to officially launch Tuath Housing’s 2023 ESG Report. This report clearly demonstrates Tuath’s commitment to creating sustainable, energy-efficient homes while prioritising social and environmental responsibility. Approved Housing Bodies play an important role in not only reducing our carbon footprint in the housing sector, but also in creating stronger, more sustainable communities.

Chief Executive of Tuath Housing, Sean O’Connor, noted, “We are delighted to launch our 2023 ESG Report and share the progress and success we’ve achieved over the past year. Despite significant challenges facing the sector, we will continue our mission of providing high-quality, affordable housing and sustainable communities with our partners and stakeholders. The report reflects the dedication of all Tuath staff, supported by our experienced and dedicated voluntary board.”

Read the full report below:

Tuath partners with DriveYou carsharing services across four developments in Dublin

Residents at four developments in Dublin can now book a vehicle on demand near their home, offering a sustainable and affordable transport option. 

left to right: Ronan Finn – Locations Growth, Driveyou. Jennifer Whitty – Sustainability Coordinator, Tuath Housing. Jonathan Roche – Managing Director, Driveyou. Pictured at Kilternan Woods, Enniskerry Road, Tuath Housing)

Tuath has partnered with car-sharing service DriveYou to provide four cars and a designated parking spot in four developments across South Dublin. Residents at these developments in Carrickmines, Kilternan, Sandyford and Tallaght can now avail of this paid service through an application on their mobile phones.

By reducing the reliance on personal vehicle ownership, this innovative collaboration between residents, DriveYou and Tuath commits to a greener environment by reducing the number of vehicles on roads, greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and traffic congestion.

This innovative partnership forms part of Tuath’s commitment to embedding sustainability into all aspects of our operations. In addition to making transport more environmentally-friendly, this eco-friendly alternative to car ownership further strengthens social sustainability at Tuath by making car-based transport increasingly accessible and affordable for residents. Additionally, with the rollout of DriveYou, Tuath continues to foster sustainable communities by  providing this shared resource, thus fostering a sense of communal responsibility for sustainable living.

“We’re excited to introduce this new car-sharing service to the residents of Dublin’s outskirts,” said Jennifer Whitty of Tuath Housing. “Our goal is to provide a reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly alternative to car ownership. We believe Driveyou will significantly benefit those living in these areas, offering them greater mobility while contributing to a reduction in traffic and pollution.”

Tuath would like to take this opportunity to thank residents and DriveYou as partners in this sustainable initiative.

 

 

First Irish home retrofit completed under Circular Reno project

Led by KORE Retrofit, Tuath Housing is proud to be a part of the Irish segment of the Circular Reno project. The first retrofit of a Tuath residents’ home, using off-site manufactured low-carbon Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) wall panels, marks a significant milestone in the initiative.

These panels, produced at KORE Retrofit’s factory in Kilnaleck, Co. Cavan, were transported directly to the site and installed on the external walls, demonstrating the efficiency of modern construction methods.

This retrofit is the first of ten Tuath homes to receive substantial energy upgrades, aligning with our commitment to sustainability and innovation. In addition to the EPS panel, the home now features:

  • Demand control ventilation: Enhances indoor air quality and energy efficiency by regulating airflow based on occupancy and air quality.
  • Heat pump with 7 new radiators: Provides efficient and sustainable heating throughout the home.
  • 2 zoned heating controls: Allows for precise temperature management across different areas of the house.
  • New triple glazed windows and doors: Improves insulation and reduces energy loss.
  • Cavity wall insulation: Adds an extra layer of thermal protection.
  • 2kW solar PV system: Generates renewable energy, reducing the home’s carbon footprint and energy costs.

We are proud to be at the forefront of sustainable housing solutions in Ireland, demonstrating the potential of low-carbon construction materials and innovative retrofitting techniques. We look forward to continuing the successful implementation of  Circular Reno, a transformative initiative under the Sustainability Interreg North-West Europe programme.

Tuath proud to receive Bronze Smarter Travel Mark from National Transport Authority

On Tuesday 9th July, Tuath’s James’s Place East office in Dublin 2 received the Smarter Travel Mark at Bronze Level from the National Transport authority.

On Tuesday 9th July, Tuath’s James’s Place East office in Dublin 2 received the Smarter Travel Mark at Bronze Level from the National Transport authority.

The Smarter Travel Mark was received in recognition of Tuath’s commitment to changing attitudes and behaviours regarding walking, cycling and public transport usage. This has been achieved by implementing measures that facilitate, support and encourage sustainable travel options for our workforce and visitors.  

Tuath received this award in recognition of initiatives that encourage sustainable travel to and from the office, including: 

  • Promoting public transport, walking & cycling through improved information available and facilities for walkers and cyclists, including updated sustainable travel options on the Tuath website.
  • Improved facilities for cyclists including covered and secure bike parking, showers and a bike puncture repair kit.
  • Sustainable travel communication plan.
  • Work policies to promote sustainable travel.
  • Participation in challenges and promotions like ‘Walktober,’ ‘Marchathon,’ and National Bike Week. 

Sean O’Connor, Tuath CEO, on receiving this award: 

‘I am delighted to confirm that Tuath Housing – James’s Place East office, has achieved the Smarter Travel Mark at Bronze level. This recognition highlights our commitment to sustainable travel initiatives and shows the importance we place on promoting active and sustainable transport. Congratulations to everyone involved in reaching this significant milestone. We will continue to work together towards a greener, more sustainable future.’ 

Following the awarding of the Bronze Smarter Travel mark, Tuath will continue its commitment to sustainable travel for employees and visitors by supporting the choice of environmentally friendly transport options in the coming months. 

Make sure to check out how visitors can get to the Tuath office sustainably here.

Tuath office-to-residential conversion developments featured in Housing Agency publication

Issue 4 of the Housing Insight Series on office-to-residential conversion developments was launched today. The paper, published by the Housing Agency, features case studies from Tuath Housing office retrofit developments.

Using case studies from the awarding-winning office-to-residential developments Parkwest Plaza, Dublin 12 and Springville House, Cork City, the paper highlights how office retrofit conversion projects contribute to the development of sustainable communities and that repurposing vacant buildings can save up to 73% in embodied carbon when compared to a demolition and re-build project. The study further highlights that collaboration is a key component of successful conversion projects.

Housing Insights Issue 4

The two featured Tuath developments are an example of a sustainable housing solution which can help to regenerate areas suffering from vacancy and dereliction. Parkwest Plaza, overall winner for ‘Best Large Housing Development for Families’ and ‘Best Creative Delivery, Supply and Collaboration’ at the ICSH 2023 Awards was the first office retrofit development at Tuath. The conversion of a four-story office block, derelict for over 20 years in to a five-story 86 apartment building was funded through Capital Advanced Leasing Facility (CALF) and Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS) funding with private finance from AIB’s Social Investment Fund.

Parkwest Plaza, Dublin 12

Springville House, National Property Awards ‘Social Housing Development of the Year’ 2024 and winner of ‘Excellence in Housing Innovation’ at the 2024 ICSH Awards is a ‘Rightsize’ development for residents over sixty years of age looking to move from their current property to one more suitable to their needs. A 1970s vacant office block was converted in to a 35-home residential building on behalf of Cork City Council through partial demolition and third floor construction on part of the existing office building and was funded through CALF and Housing Finance Agency (HFA) private finance.

Springville House, Cork City

Through this publication, Tuath and the Housing Agency hope to provide good practice learnings to other social housing providers to be able to replicate with similar innovative projects. These conversion developments and paper further highlight Tath’s strategic focus on sustainability, a core principle of Tuath’s development strategy. In particular, Tuath recognises that the most sustainable and green projects are those that are already built and that sustainability also refers to providing top quality, warm safe and comfortable housing and communities.

Further insight into the Tuath Housing Case Studies can be found here. 

Tuath Green Team Visit to Cloughjordan Eco-Village

Yesterday marked a significant moment for the Tuath Green Team as they embarked on a visit to the Cloughjordan Eco-village in Co. Tipperary. The experience provided an opportunity for the team to listen and learn from a community dedicated to prioritizing environmental stewardship and community-centric living.

The Tuath Green Team, committed to driving and supporting green initiatives across Tuath’s operations, understands the importance of leading by example. Their visit to Cloughjordan Eco-village was a testament to this commitment, aiming to glean insights and inspiration from a community that embodies sustainability in its truest sense.Located in North Tipperary, Cloughjordan Eco-village stands as shining example of collaboration of resilience. From renewable energy systems to organic food production, every aspect of life in the village is meticulously designed to minimise environmental impact while fostering a sense of interconnectedness with nature and one another

As the Tuath Green Team wandered through the streets of Cloughjordan, they were greeted by a palpable sense of community spirit and shared purpose. Residents, passionate about sustainability and social cohesion, eagerly shared their experiences and knowledge with their visitors.

Cloughjordan serves as a living laboratory for sustainable living practices. Workshops and educational programs are regularly held, empowering residents and visitors alike to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. From composting and permaculture to renewable energy workshops, the village is a hub of learning and innovation.

As the day drew to a close, the Tuath Green Team reflected on their experience with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The visit to Cloughjordan Eco-village had offered not only valuable insights but also a glimpse into what a sustainable future could look like.

The visit to the eco-village served as a powerful reminder that change is possible when communities come together with a shared vision for a better, more sustainable world.