DevelopmentLand: A prime site in Castleknock village is likely to be redeveloped for a mixed-use scheme, writes Jack Fagan.
One of the last remaining development sites in the heart of Castleknock village in Dublin 15 is to be sold at tender on November 30th.
DTZ Sherry FitzGerald is quoting over €9 million for the site of 0.68 of a hectare (1.7 acres) which is likely to be used for a mixed-use development of retail, offices and apartments.
The key site is located at the back of the old post office, immediately adjacent to both Ashleigh and Castleknock village shopping centres. It is opposite Myo's bar. There are three access points to the land from Castleknock Road. A detached house on the property will invariably be demolished to make way for a high density scheme.
Under the current Fingal development plan, the zoning objective for the site is "to protect and enhance the special physical and social character of major suburban centres and provide and/or improve urban facilities".
Laura Somers of DTZ Sherry FitzGerald describes the site as the "last substantial development opportunity" in the heart of the village. She estimates that the site could accommodate up to 1,858sq m (20,000sq ft) of retail facilities. Castleknock is an exceedingly busy village with a huge spending power.
It has a large middle-class population and a good sprinkling of wealthy business and professional people. Bars, restaurants and boutique shops in the village are well supported and there is obviously scope to provide more of them.
The area has had several high quality developments of new homes in recent years, the most notable and stylish being Farmleigh Woods where Seamus Ross's company, Menolly, is putting the final touches to a housing and apartment scheme within little more than five minutes walk of the village.
The rapid growth of Castleknock in recent years stems in part from its ideal location beside the Phoenix Park which allows motorists to avail of a quick run into the city quays. Castleknock's proximity to Blanchardstown Town Centre has also meant that local families frequently shop there rather than in the city centre due to traffic congestion.
