Up to 750 new homes could be built in Galway City after plans were launched this morning by the Land Development Agency (LDA) to transform land surrounding Sandy Road.
The new urban quarter would include ‘social and affordable’ mixed tenure homes, situated around a central park and smaller garden courts, pocket parks and a public square.
A draft spatial framework for The Sandy Quarter has been produced as part of a six-week public consultation process, which will run until May 12 before planning consent is sought.
The framework details how plans for the c.10 hectares site could create a new sustainable neighbourhood, connecting with existing residential and business communities.
It proposes a vision for the area that builds on the policies in the recently adopted Galway City Development Plan 2023-2029, and also complements many other significant initiatives that are underway in Galway City.
It was developed by the LDA with partners Galway City Council and key stakeholders Galway County Council, and the ESB, as well as adjoining private landowners whose land also forms part of the framework area.
Both councils and the ESB will be required to relocate prior to development commencing.
The LDA is keen to hear from interested parties and stakeholders and a full website and communication suite is in place.
Feedback from the public consultation will be used by the LDA to identify how the site can develop, and where a first development phase could happen, before a final version of the framework is published later this year.
The next step will consider the strategy for obtaining planning consent which will be required to progress any development.
Further public consultation will take place before planning consent is sought. Full details are available at www.thesandyquarter.ie and contact email is community@thesandyquarter.ie
The draft spatial framework was produced following a design review process run by the Royal Institute of Architects Ireland to provide high-level visions of the land’s potential and capacity. C. 10
John Coleman, chief executive of the LDA, said that this is another significant development for the LDA and part of our ongoing work to optimise the potential of underutilised public land.
“The Draft Spatial Framework involves an exciting vision for this land and serves as a guide to how it can be radically transformed from a brownfield site into a vibrant urban quarter,” said Mr Coleman.
“The LDA is already involved in a number of affordable and social housing projects with local authorities and is delighted to be working with Galway City Council, Galway County Council and the ESB on what will be a fantastic addition to Galway city.
“We have the expertise to plan and deliver this project and we look forward to doing so.”
Brendan McGrath, Chief Executive of Galway City Council, said: “Galway City Council is very pleased to be working in partnership with the Land Development Agency to progress this strategic spatial framework for the Sandy Road area.
“This site is very important in the context of compact growth, active travel, climate action, and the anticipated increase in population in Galway City under the National Planning Framework.
“Sustainable, compact growth will be key to the continued success of Galway city, and ambitious plans such as the draft spatial framework for the Sandy Road area will be at the heart of this.”
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