Land Development Agency appoints design team for Limerick Dock Road site with potential for 290 homes

The Land Development Agency (LDA) has appointed a multi-disciplinary design team for a new residential development at Limerick’s Docklands.

The 1.2 hectare site, located on the junction of Dock Rd and O’Curry Street has the potential to deliver almost 290 new affordable homes.

The land, currently owned by Gas Networks Ireland (GNI), is being transferred to the LDA.

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 expecting to lodge a planning application in summer 2025, and subject to approval, construction could begin in 2027.

Located beside the Dock Clock, the site is less than a 15-minute walk from Limerick city centre, with existing bus links connecting to primary and secondary schools, UL, University Hospital Limerick and the Crescent Shopping Centre.

Many of the ornate features of the historic site, including the freestanding limestone wall, will be retained and incorporated into the design of the new development.

This planned project builds on the LDA’s ongoing activity in Limerick, which will see the Agency launching its first cost rental homes at the Mills in Castletroy shortly.

The LDA will publish the initial design plan for the Dock Road site in early 2025 and 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:

“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.

“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”.

Cathal Marley, CEO of Gas Networks Ireland added:

“Housing is one of the biggest issues facing Ireland, and Limerick is no different. GNI is proud to be working with the LDA to explore the potential for this land to be available for development.