The Irish government has approved a social housing scheme in Dublin, developed on a sustainable basis under Rebuilding Ireland with a blend of social, affordable and private homes.

Simon Coveney, T.D., Minister for Housing, Planning, Community & Local Government and the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, T.D., have announced Stage 1 approval of the Regeneration Scheme for O’Devaney Gardens.

Approval in principle for Stage 1 provides for the construction of 56 social homes at a cost of €17.9 million (US$18.9 million). This is the first phase of a mixed-tenure development which has been the subject of discussions between the Minister and the councilors to secure 30% social, 20% affordable and 50% private development of these lands of approximately 600 homes altogether.

O’Devaney Gardens however is just the first phase of this project which will include further development of the site, consisting of a further 54 social units, along with a mix of private and affordable units which is an integral part of the scheme in order to ensure a sustainable and vibrant community.

Minister Coveney stated:

“I am pleased to be here this afternoon to approve the first phase of the regeneration of O’Devaney Gardens. This will kick-start the regeneration of this area. I am keen to see the development of this large site in the centre of Dublin City.  There is considerable potential to develop up to 600 homes on the site, of which up to 50% could be social and/or affordable units. I am anxious for the City Council to progress this project at speed so we can re-energise this area.  Under Rebuilding Ireland we have a particular emphasis on achieving a mix of private and social housing so we don’t make the same mistakes as we did in the past with mono-tenure housing schemes.  The overall plan for this site will help us to achieve this"

Minister Donohoe said:

“It gives me great pleasure to join Minister Coveney in announcing Stage 1 approval of the Regeneration Scheme for O’Devaney Gardens today. As a T.D. for Dublin Central, I know O’Devaney well. The economic collapse, which delayed the regeneration of this and other PPP projects for a number of years means O’Devaney Gardens, and its residents, have suffered a number of set-backs and seen a few false dawns down through the years. This Government has prioritized housing as the number one issue to be dealt with. This has resulted in funds being made available to get essential projects such as this off the ground. Just a stone’s throw from Dublin city centre, the redevelopment of O’Devaney Gardens will, ultimately, provide a variety of much needed homes for hundreds of people. Set in a mature part of Dublin that is well served by public transport, including the Luas, this development signals an exciting period ahead for the area and the surrounding local communities. I look forward to the progress that will be made on Stage 1 and with Dublin City Council across the weeks and months ahead.”