Galway City Approves 219 Affordable Homes on Dyke Road

Planning permission has been granted for the construction of 219 affordable homes at Dyke Road in Galway City. The approval, issued by An Coimisiún Pleanála, marks the first phase of the overall Development Framework, known as Corrib Causeway: Tóchar na Coiribe. This initiative aims to transform approximately 1.87 hectares of Galway City Council (GCC)-owned land into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood that will include residential, commercial, civic, and cultural facilities.

The development will feature a diverse array of housing options, with plans for 109 one-bedroom, 100 two-bedroom, and 10 three-bedroom apartments. The buildings will vary in height from five to nine storeys, providing a modern living environment. Additionally, the project will incorporate amenities such as a crèche, car and bicycle parking, communal open spaces, and playgrounds, alongside enhanced landscaping along Dyke Road.

Community Impact and Future Plans

Plans for the longer term include the introduction of new cycling and walking infrastructure, green spaces, and improved transport links to nearby facilities like Terryland Forest Park and Galway Shopping Centre. With planning permission secured, the project will now advance to the detailed design and procurement stages, with construction expected to begin in 2027.

The Land Development Agency (LDA) and Galway City Council have expressed strong support for the planning decision. Phelim O’Neill, Director of Development with the LDA, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, “Securing planning permission for Dyke Road is a major step towards delivering much-needed affordable homes in Galway.” He highlighted the complexities of the site and commended the LDA’s ability to navigate challenges to expedite housing delivery.

Mayor of the City of Galway, Councillor Mike Cubbard, also praised the collaborative efforts between the LDA and the local authority, expressing enthusiasm for the new homes being developed near the city centre. “I look forward to 219 new homes close to the city centre,” he remarked.

In addition, Leonard Cleary, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, noted the council’s commitment to prioritising housing on publicly owned land. “We are delighted to reach this milestone for the Dyke Road project. This site will soon become a lively, sustainable community featuring high-quality homes and improved local amenities,” he stated. Cleary further described the initiative as more than just housing, highlighting its potential to rejuvenate the area and foster community development.

The LDA is also moving forward with other housing projects, including the anticipated delivery of the first 345 homes at Crown Square by the end of 2026. A planning application has been submitted for an additional 356 homes at Amharc Atalia, located at Galway Port. Furthermore, the agency is collaborating with Galway City Council on a long-term strategy to transform the land surrounding Sandy Road into a new urban quarter with the potential for 750 affordable and social homes.

As the Dyke Road project progresses, it stands as a key development in addressing the housing needs of Galway City while enhancing the overall community infrastructure.