The Crane Survey uses the crane as a metaphor, symbolising the dynamic activity beneath the skyline, continuing a tradition that has been respected for nearly 30 years.
This year's edition offers an in-depth look at construction activities across key sectors, including Student Accommodation, Hotels, Offices, and Residential spaces.
Key Findings
- Investment Needs: Ireland requires €122 billion by 2030 to meet national housing targets, with €16.4 billion needed in 2025 and €24.1 billion by 2030. Of this, €9.9 billion is earmarked for social and affordable housing, highlighting the necessity for private investment.
- Residential Sector: Estimated completions of 33,000 homes in 2025 fall short of the Government target of 41,000, underscoring the need for increased output to meet the growing population's demands.
- Office Space: Office completions nearly doubled in 2024 due to large-scale pre-pandemic projects. However, the pipeline is expected to thin rapidly beyond 2025, with only one major office scheme anticipated in Dublin by 2027.
- Hotel Sector: Despite a 17% decline in hotel room delivery year-on-year, 4,060 rooms are under construction as of Q1 2025, indicating a recovered market with rising occupancy rates and investor activity.
- Student Accommodation: A deepening crisis is evident with only 895 purpose-built student beds delivered in 2024, marking the lowest level since records began in 2016. With student numbers projected to reach 240,000 by 2030, urgent action is needed.
The 2025 Deloitte Crane Report emphasises the critical need for a stable policy environment to attract private investment and meet Ireland's housing and infrastructure targets.
Deloitte Ireland remains committed to delivering impactful solutions and insights to address Ireland's most complex business challenges.
Key Statistics
- By Authors: Daniel Lockley Kate English of Deloitte Ireland LLP
