Ardent Lakeside, part of the Ardent Group, has submitted a planning application for 69 high-quality homes on a disused site near The Bower in Athlone.
The proposed plan covers 23 two-storey duplexes consisting of two-bedroom units, 18 single-storey apartments comprising eight one-bedroom units and 10 two-bedroom units, and 28 three-bedroom houses. The area has been vacant for 10 years.
Ardent, in association with local engineers MMKDA, Cook Architects, and Scott Landscaping Design, has proposed a design that addresses the challenging topography of the site with tiered landscaping that features seating and community areas. If approved, the development would create around 60 jobs.
Pedestrian access across the development has been prioritised and a detailed planting regime has been designed to provide quality screening where required.
The high-quality homes will have a minimum BER rating of A3, meaning the heating requirements will be substantially lower than similar-sized houses built in the past. The houses will have numerous special features to achieve this A-rating, including triple-glazed windows, exceptional floor and wall insulation, air tightness, and mechanical heat recovery ventilation.
Longford-Westmeath Deputy, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, welcomed the announcement: “I’m delighted The Bower project has taken this significant step forward. This is a much-needed development for the region and one that would provide a number of benefits for our community.”
Robert Keane, director at Ardent Lakeside, said: “The development would provide high-quality homes and generate more footfall for nearby commercial outlets. A range of different residential options, external features, and landscaping would make this a desirable place to live.”
MMKDA managing director John McGrath said: “Athlone is in need of new housing. This development, given its quality, location, style, and housing mix would satisfy a large number of house-seekers. The additional housing would bring economic benefits to people living and working in the Athlone region.”
Located on the Lower Road, the development is within 700m of Athlone Towncentre shopping centre and main street, 700m from Athlone train station and adjacent to the historic Bower convent.
The proposed development is also within a five-minute walk of Athlone Community College, Marist College, and Our Lady’s Bower Secondary School.
