There was positive news within the Athlone property development realm this week, as Minister of State, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, formally announced the construction of 76 private houses at Arcadia on Monday afternoon.
The development of the three and four bedroom terraced houses on the green field site, opposite Temple Printing Works, is expected to cost in the region of 21m when completed, with Yellow Island Construction Limited, comprising a number of Athlone and Mullingar based developers, overseeing the project.
Speaking to the Athlone Advertiser as details of the development were made public, Deputy Moran noted that it was a “significant day” for housing development in Athlone.
“Athlone is in much need of housing developments and the start of construction on this green field site is to be very much welcomed. Our local authority needs Government assistance with regard to the building of houses and it is great to have a private development scheme starting imminently here in Athlone,” Deputy Moran enthused.
The houses, which are family orientated, will be constructed over a number of development phases with the initial six properties available for sale from the plans, which will be available to view at REA Hynes Auctioneers.
Pertaining to sustainable living, Deputy Moran explained that the location of the development, with easy access to the motorway and numerous retail and recreational facilities, would be an attraction for those seeking to buy a new home.
Welcoming the news, Cllr. John Dolan stated that the housing shortage issue was a major topic on the canvass trail prior to the local elections.
“This housing development is a commitment from both the local authority and Government to the town of Athlone and will, when complete, alleviate somewhat the shortage of residential properties in the area.
“The construction of residential properties on this green field site further complements the Brawny housing development,” Cllr. Dolan remarked.
Independent Councillor, Jamie Moran, also welcomed the announcement, which will also encompass a green space and creche when construction concludes.
Donna Hynes, Director, REA Hynes, highlighted the significant shortage in private houses available on the market presently and expected that the houses would prove particularly popular with first time buyers making their initial foray onto the property market.
“Unfortunately there is a massive shortage of private housing developments in the locality and I am expecting that these houses, which are completely family orientated featuring private gardens, will sell quite quickly, with the first six properties available from the plans which will be on display in our business,” Donna commented.
Comprising affordable and executive properties and 125.5 square metres in size, the three and for bedroom houses will be formally known as The Downs, Arcadia, upon completion, with prices ranging from 250k to 300k.
