DUBLIN, IRELAND – The Land Development Agency (LDA), in partnership with Ballymore and Lydon, has officially commenced construction on two new housing developments in north County Dublin, which will collectively deliver 1,162 homes. The projects, Hampton Demesne in Balbriggan and Priory Fields in Skerries, are a major milestone for affordable and social housing delivery in the region.
Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, joined representatives from Fingal County Council, the LDA, Ballymore, and Lydon for the official sod-turning ceremonies. He reiterated the government’s top priority of getting homes built faster to meet the needs of the community.
The Hampton Demesne development in Balbriggan, formerly known as Castlelands, is being built by Ballymore and will comprise 817 homes. This includes a mix of houses and apartments, with the first phase expected to be completed by the end of 2027. This phase will deliver 207 Affordable Purchase and 52 social homes, along with a new Castlelands link road to connect Hamilton Road and the R127. The development also includes plans for a childcare facility, playground, café, and other recreational amenities.
Meanwhile, the Priory Fields development in Skerries, formerly Hacketstown, will deliver 345 affordable homes, consisting of 101 social, 117 cost rental, and 127 affordable purchase homes. The first phase, being built by Lydon, includes 176 homes with a mix of one, two, and three-bed apartments. This low-rise development will also feature a crèche, community space, and new pedestrian and cycle routes.
Speaking at the event, John Coleman, Chief Executive of the LDA, emphasized that the two projects mark a significant delivery milestone for the agency, stating that the new homes and amenities will “foster lasting communities and generate a positive social impact.”
AnnMarie Farrelly, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, highlighted the quality and mixed tenure of the developments, noting that they are “exactly what is needed in both communities.” She added that the commitment to societal impact from all partners will ensure the new developments “add tremendously to the local communities in Skerries and Balbriggan.”
