Gym, garden and concierge all in the package

DUBLIN: FROM €300,000:Extras, like a large gym and a concierge service, are helping sales at an upscale scheme in Dundrum, writes ORNA MULCAHY

THREE NEW show units open this weekend at Wyckham Point, Dundrum, D16, an upscale apartment scheme close to the town centre and set in three acres of communal grounds.

Prices have been trimmed back substantially at the development, built by O’Malley Construction and Dorville Homes, since it first came on the market in early 2007.

Some 200 apartments have now been built on the site where the original marketing suite has been converted into a 279sq m (3,000sq ft) gym and spa with sauna and solarium. Residents also have a 24-hour concierge service, private business centre and underground parking.

Around 40 of the original units remain for sale, with prices now substantially reduced, says David Cantwell of Hooke MacDonald which is joint selling agent with Sherry FitzGerald New Homes.

Prices start at €300,000 for one-beds while two and three-bed units start at €400,000 and €500,000 respectively – down around €150,000 from launch prices. A final block in the scheme will be completed next year, but construction has slowed considerably due to the downturn.

The prices might seem high by comparison with other large scale developments in the suburbs, but Wyckham Point scores high in the location stakes, positioned within walking distance of the town centre with its shops, cinemas, restaurants and Luas, and, for commuters, being close to the M50.

Affluent first-timers probably make up the majority of residents in what is a mainly owner-occupier scheme. But a number of apartments have been bought by downsizers from the neighbourhood, says Cantwell, who is viewing the scheme by appointment only, rather than open viewings, since, he says, it takes a while to tour all the facilities.

It’s a relatively low rise scheme. The units are reasonably sized: one-beds are 42-60sq m (450 to 640sq ft); two-beds 69-85sq m (740-950sq ft); and three-beds 95-135sq m (1,020-1,450sq ft).

Completed apartments are ready to move into. Inside, these are smart, nicely finished units with quality contemporary style kitchens incorporating all appliances and bathrooms come with underfloor heating and handsome fittings, recessed lighting, shelving and cupboards – a great improvement on the white tile boxes of old.

Living and bedrooms are wired for TV and internet. There is security intercom access and gas-fired central heating.