Construction starts on O’Devaney Gardens

Dublin City Council has turned the first sod on the O’Devaney Gardens redevelopment, which will deliver 1,044 new homes.

When complete, 50% of the A-rated homes will be delivered to Dublin City Council for social and affordable housing.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD and Chief Executive, Dublin City Council, Richard Shakespeare hosted the ceremony.

The event was attended by representatives from Dublin City Council and the scheme developer Bartra.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithí de Róiste said, “This is a hugely significant project for Dublin City.

“These long awaited 1,044 A-rated social, affordable, and private homes will ensure the delivery of much needed housing.

“These new social homes will be built to the latest standards and the highest quality and I’m sure the tenants will be delighted with them when they are finished.”

Mike Flannery, left, CEO, Bartra, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien and Richard Shakespeare, Chief Executive at Dublin City Council, turn the first sod at the O’Devaney Gardens redevelopment site, which will deliver 1,044 new homes in the heart of Dublin city. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien said, ““This is a great day for Dublin’s north inner city.

“The redevelopment of O’Devaney Gardens, which I know has been long awaited, will transform this area, providing amenities for the community and high-quality housing, including hundreds of social and affordable homes.

“Housing for All is working. We are seeing an increased supply of housing across all tenures, and getting major projects like this on site is key to maintaining that momentum.”

Richard Shakespeare, Chief Executive, Dublin City Council said, “I’m delighted to witness the commencement of construction at O’Devaney Gardens—a landmark redevelopment providing 1,044 A-rated homes.

“This redevelopment initiative, underscores our commitment to addressing the housing needs of our community.

“With 50% allocated for social and affordable housing, O’Devaney Gardens is not just a construction project; it’s a pledge to create a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable urban environment in the heart of Dublin.

“This development, situated on the doorstep of the Phoenix Park, is poised to be a prime example of modern, mixed-tenure living, reflecting our dedication to providing diverse and high-quality housing solutions for our city.”

Discussions are also nearing a conclusion with approved housing bodies, Tuath and Circle, for additional cost rental homes, which will ultimately see the substantial majority of the development helping the State to support those most in need of new homes.

Phase 1 of the development will see the delivery of 379 A-rated social, affordable, and cost rental homes, a park, crèche, community space and retail units, in the northern area of the site adjacent to Thor Place and Ashford Street.

The development is ideally placed to take advantage of key national transport infrastructure; land use will be optimised for people rather than cars.

Residents will have access to a Car Sharing Club providing hybrid and electric vehicles to help them travel in a more eco-friendly and sustainable way.

“O’Devaney Gardens will be one of Europe’s most sustainable developments, and has been designed with living, rather than driving, in mind,” said Mike Flannery CEO, Bartra. “It aims to support the development of a thriving local economy and meet the needs of future residents.

“The development has been designed to foster community spirit, enhance resident wellness, and provide a sustainable lifestyle.

“Communication has been at the heart of the process since its outset, and our regular monthly forum has been extremely well supported by the community and local representatives.”

Cllr. Alison Gilliland, Chair of the Dublin City Council Housing SPC said, “’In terms of size, this is one of Dublin City Council’s most significant mixed tenure residential developments. Situated on the doorstep of the Phoenix Park and with excellent connectivity with the city centre O’Devaney Gardens will be a prime example of modern sustainable living.

“Working together this development will provide our city with over 1,000 high quality homes in the next couple of years.’”