New €12.5 million housing estate opens in Offaly

A brand new €12.5 million housing estate has been officially opened in Clara by the Cathaoirleach of Tullamore Municipal District, Councillor Frank Moran.

The homes will take 38 families and individuals off the Offaly housing waiting list.

Willow Drive as the new scheme has been christined has been described as a ''significant housing project delivered under the Housing for All 2022-2026 Social Housing Investment Programme.''

Speaking at the official opening ceremony, Councillor Frank Moran said he was delighted to officially open the development.

''There is high demand for housing in Offaly and these much-needed social homes will provide another 38 families and individuals with homes for life,'' he said.

Cllr Moran continued that, ''although this is a great news story today, I along with Offaly County Council’s Elected Members and Executive will continue our efforts to meet the demand going forward.”

Chief Executive of Offaly County Council, Anna Marie Delaney, praised Council staff and the

design and construction team, stating, “Our Capital Design Office, in collaboration with

various agencies and stakeholders, successfully designed and delivered these homes. As

part of the scheme, Offaly County Council delivered the upgrades to the local footpath

infrastructure to ensure safe passage to the town of Clara for the residents of Willow Drive.

Additionally, the estate has been designed to provide a safe and comfortable environment

for both pedestrians and cyclists.” Ms Delaney added,

''As with all projects delivered by Offaly County Council, I acknowledge the support and collaboration of our Elected Members who ensure the successful delivery of these high-quality sustainable homes,” said Ms Delaney.

Cllr Frank Moran concluded “These homes, which are built to an excellent standard, and will

contribute to a thriving future for all residents.”

The scheme was designed in partnership with Offaly County Council’s

Capital Design office and the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

Walsh & Associates were the Architects for the development. Hayes Higgins Partnership, Engineers and John J Casey & Co, Quantity Surveyors were appointed by Offaly County Council as the Design Team.

Bretland Construction Group were contractors for the site and construction commenced in March 2023. It finished ahead of schedule in October 2024.

‘Housing for All - a New Housing Plan for Ireland’ is the Government’s multi-annual, multi-billion-euro plan which aims to improve Ireland’s housing system and deliver more homes of all types for people with different housing needs.