PLANS for up to 290 new homes in Limerick City have taken a step forward this week with the appointment of a multi-disciplinary design team.
The site on the Dock Road, just 15 minutes walk from the city centre, is currently owned by Gas Networks Ireland but is in the process of being transferred to the Land Development Agency (LDA). It has the potential for 290 affordable homes to be developed, creating some much-needed alleviation to the city’s current housing crisis.
The proposed homes will include a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments across three blocks. Landscaped gardens, green open areas, and retail units will also be included in the plans.
The LDA is hoping to lodge a planning application in summer 2025, and, subject to approval, construction could be set to begin some time in 2027.
The 1.2 hectare site, beside the well-known Dock Clock, features a freestanding limestone wall, which it is understood will be retained and incorporated into the design of the new development.
Plans for the site will be published in early 2025 and the LDA will host a series of information meetings and workshops to encourage residents, businesses, and community groups to engage with and contribute to the design process.
John Coleman, chief executive of the Land Development Agency, said that the plans will help to revitalise the corner of the city that has “laid idle for years”.
“This is a great site in a prime location near Limerick city centre, with the potential to build almost 290 much needed affordable homes, community facilities, and retail units. This development also has the potential to revitalise an area that has lain idle for years and provide new homes and facilities alongside established communities,” Mr Coleman said.
“I would like to thank Gas Networks Ireland for engaging with the LDA and making this land available. This development is testament to the collaboration which exists between State bodies to work together and provide solutions to address our country’s housing need.”
Fianna Fáil general election candidate for Limerick City, and former Limerick Chamber CEO, Dee Ryan welcomed the plans as they were announced today.
The former Chamber boss said that the site “is in a prime location, minutes from the city. I welcome the fact that the many ornate features of the historic site, including the freestanding limestone wall, will be retained and incorporated into the design of the new development”.
