Work begins on construction of 62 new homes in Rush
The first sod has been turned on a new development in Fingal which will see the delivery of much needed affordable and social housing in one of Ireland’s fastest growing regions.
Situated in the coastal town of Rush, the Hayestown development will consist of 62 homes, comprising a mix of 2- and 3-bedroom properties. Joining Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Howard Mahony for the ground breaking ceremony was the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, the Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly and local Councillors.
The new housing – on a site approximately six acres in size - will be a welcome addition for those looking to have an opportunity to purchase their own home. Once completed, there will be 38 three-bedroom houses, 10 two-bedroom houses, seven three-bedroom duplexes and seven two-bedroom apartments on offer. The mixed tenure Hayestown development will be made up of 80% affordable housing and 20% social housing.
To allow for less energy demand on the power grid, the homes will be built to ensure high energy performance standards are met. That will incorporate technologies such as ground source heat pumps that will help reduce energy bills. The development will also make the most of its natural surrounds by incorporating a riparian zone around a stream, with trees featuring to help form a beautiful open public space.
Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Howard Mahony said: “The availability of social and affordable housing can have a significant impact on people's lives, which is why Fingal is committed to continuing the construction of properties to help meet ever growing demand. In doing so, we want to help to improve living standards, support sustainable communities and ensure the delivery of more new homes right across the County.”
Some €3.9m in government funding has been made available for the development under the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF), which will allow for the construction of 52 affordable homes as part of the project. The AHF is a subsidy which is available to local authorities such as Fingal County Council to help with housing development costs. It enables local authorities to make affordable homes available to purchase or rent at prices and rents below market rates.
Fingal County Council’s Director of Housing and Community Development, Robert Burns, said: “Having a roof over your head is a basic human need and we know that having access to safe, secure, and affordable housing can have a positive impact on individuals, families, and communities. Mixed tenure developments like this give an opportunity for first-time buyers to get on the property ladder in a more cost-effective way, as well as providing stable and affordable rental properties for low-income households.”
The homes available at the new development will be advertised on the Council’s website in the coming months, with construction expected to be completed in the first half of 2024.
For more information on the Hayestown development, visit www.fingal.ie/affordable-housing-development-hayestown-rush-co-dublin.
