Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown County Council has signed contracts with Evara to deliver 205 new social homes at Grand Parade Place in Cherrywood. The scheme, on Council‑owned land, is among several being advanced through the Competitive Dialogue approach, which partners the Council with industry to accelerate high‑quality housing delivery.

This project refines a previously permitted plan from 2022, increasing the number of homes from 146 to 205 while aligning with Cherrywood's broader vision as a sustainable, growing neighbourhood. The updated design optimises the site to provide more homes and stronger community connections.

The development comprises 117 two‑bedroom, 75 one‑bedroom and 13 studio apartments, reflecting a mix intended to meet varied housing needs. The area is planned with safe pedestrian and cycling links, and residents will be close to the Luas Green Line, with convenient access to the N11 and M50.

An Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Jim Gildea, of Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown County Council, said: "The signing of these contracts represents an important step forward in addressing housing need across our county. This development will deliver high‑quality, well‑designed social homes in a strategic location, close to public transport and essential services. Grand Parade Place demonstrates how innovative procurement approaches, such as the Competitive Dialogue process, can help maximise the use of public land and deliver real benefits for our communities."

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Frank Curran, Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown County Council, added: "This project highlights the Council's commitment to delivering sustainable and affordable homes through strong partnership working. By refining the original scheme through the Competitive Dialogue process, we have been able to significantly increase the number of homes delivered on this site, while maintaining high design and environmental standards. Developments such as Grand Parade Place are central to meeting housing demand and supporting the creation of connected, liveable neighbourhoods."

The scheme is supported by funding from the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage through the Social Housing Capital Investment Programme. It is one of multiple projects moving ahead under the EU Competitive Dialogue procurement route, with over a thousand homes at various stages in the Council's pipeline. Building on this momentum, the Council plans a further Competitive Dialogue call later in 2026 to continue expanding social and affordable housing.

The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne T.D., said: "The signing of contracts for the Grand Parade Place development in Cherrywood represents a significant advancement in the delivery of social housing within Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown. With significant financial support from my Department, this development will provide 205 high‑quality social homes for individuals and families most in need. These homes will contribute to the creation of a sustainable, well‑integrated community.

"Under the Housing Action Plan, 'Delivering Homes, Building Communities 2025–2030', this Government plans to significantly increase the number of new social homes built each year. Through initiatives such as this from Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown County Council, we are reaffirming our commitment to expanding housing provision and fostering vibrant, inclusive communities."

Michael Hynes, Chief Executive Officer of Evara, said: "We are excited to partner with Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown County Council on the delivery of over 200 homes at Grand Parade Place. Cherrywood is a key location for Evara, and we are actively engaged in ensuring this developing suburb features a mix of housing types and tenures, alongside excellent transport links, community facilities and amenities. Grand Parade Place will be completed to the highest standards, providing residents with sustainable and modern apartment living in a well‑served and vibrant new community.

"This project marks Evara's first collaboration with Dún Laoghaire‑Rathdown County Council under the Competitive Dialogue process, and we believe it sets a strong foundation for further partnership in the future. We look forward to delivering this project together."

Completion is targeted for late 2028.