Around the Block: LauraLynn to benefit from sale of Wicklow site

Allsop auctions are not usually known for their altruism, tending instead to be a bonanza of heavily- discounted properties for cash-rich investors chasing a bargain.

But next Tuesday’s Allsop Space auction will feature one lot that should draw considerable interest. A Dublin woman has decided to donate a picturesque 0.6 acre site suitable for a family home in Co Wicklow for auction with the proceeds from the sale going to LauraLynn, Ireland’s first children’s hospice.

Mrs Catherine Harold bought the site near Kiltegan some years ago and has since decided against building on it. Now it will seek bids at next week’s auction in Dublin’s RDS with a reserve of €10,000.

“I was watching television one night and saw the All Black rugby players visiting LauraLynn and I was astonished that it was the only children’s hospice in Ireland. I decided there and then to donate the site to LauraLynn to help in the wonderful work they do for children and families,” Mrs Harold said.

According to Robert Hoban, director of auctions for Allsop Space, they will not charge any fee for conducting the transaction, and he is hopeful it will achieve a strong price. “I hope it goes for a lot more than €10,000. Sites like this located within about 45 minutes of Dublin can achieve anywhere between €10,000 and €50,000, so it’s anybody’s call.”

The site currently has no planning, though there are a couple of houses adjacent which would indicate planning may be obtained. It will certainly be closely watched on Tuesday as Lot Number 9 comes up in the auction of more than 190 properties.