Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien officially broke ground at the Aldborough Manor housing estate in Baltinglass, a new private, social and affordable housing development, on Monday.
The event marked the beginning of a project that aims to address the considerable demand for quality housing in the area.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr O'Brien said: "I'm delighted to be a part of this important milestone that is the breaking of soil at Aldborough Manor. This Government have put affordability and homeownership at the heart of our Housing for All Plan. My Department are supporting 22 of these new homes through the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) and we want to see more of these developments all across the country.
“This development embodies the government’s commitment to deliver affordable, quality housing across Ireland. I look forward to seeing this project set the standard for housing initiatives nationwide."
The development is spearheaded by Fitzpatrick and Heavey Homes and is set to feature 89 homes and a crèche.
Ciaran Fitzpatrick, chief executive of Fitzpatrick and Heavey Homes, said: "The groundbreaking ceremony today serves as an affirmation of our commitment to address the housing needs in Wicklow and rural Ireland. This development will not only provide homes but also support a thriving community, nestled within the beautifully landscaped surroundings of Baltinglass."
Turning the sod in Aldborough Manor, #Baltinglass #Wicklow on a mixed social & affordable development.
An important milestone here in #Wicklow & I look forward to seeing this project progress. #HousingforAll pic.twitter.com/c6lvmJjJSg— Darragh O'Brien (@DarraghOBrienTD) October 2, 2023
Representatives from Wicklow County Council, including chief executive Emer O’Gorman, also attended the event. Ms O’Gorman said: "We are proud to have cooperated in a development that aligns so closely with our own goals for community growth and environmental sustainability. Aldborough Manor will be a great addition to the Baltinglass community, and we're excited to see the positive impact it will make."
Located on a site overlooking the River Slaney, Aldborough Manor will offer homes ranging from 1,250 sq ft to 1,300 sq ft, with affordable home prices starting at €260,000. These units fall under the Affordable Housing Scheme.
For further information or inquiries, interested parties can visit AldboroughManor.ie or contact DNG McCormack, Carlow on (059) 913 3800