Progress underway for more than 120 new homes in Limerick location
THE INCLUSION of 67 new homes at Toppins Field has been welcomed as part of the Social Housing Public Private Partnership (PPP) Programme.
It follows funding approval in July for 56 housing units at Toppins Field under the Affordable Housing Fund. These are two significant advances in realising the ambitions of the masterplan devised for the approximate 5 hectare site, which is owned by the local authority and situated between Carew Park and Rathbane on Limerick city’s south side.
The masterplan, which spans approximately 285 homes, aims to provide 50% affordable, 30% social rental, and 20% private right-sizing housing.
Designed to enhance the community's quality of life, the masterplan also incorporates various elements such as a new crèche, common facilities, playgrounds, and high-quality public amenity parks, fostering social interaction and recreational activities.
The scheme places a strong emphasis on sustainability, including measures for water retention on-site, a new pond area, and an ecology park, while incorporating productive landscape elements, such as fruit trees and community gardening.
The council envisions the full development of Toppins Field over time, aiming for a sustainable mixed-use, mixed-tenure residential quarter.
The Affordable Housing Fund project of 56 housing units, already approved, is in the preplanning design phase, while the Social Housing PPP Programme will deliver a mix of 1 and 2-bed social units alongside universally designed accessible units.
Mayor of Limerick city and county, Councillor Gerald Mitchell, expressed satisfaction with the progress, saying: "Progress on the Toppins Field masterplan is very welcome as we address the current housing challenges. It is a mixed-tenure estate that aligns with the Council’s commitment to regenerate the south side of the city."
Caroline Curley, director of services, housing at Limerick City and County Council, highlighted the significance of the development, adding: "This development is a key part of this Council’s overall housing plans for the coming years, and the funding approval advanced for both affordable and social homes is very welcome.
"Over the coming months, a number of planning applications will begin preparation. Importantly, this brings a step closer the opportunity to provide more mixed tenure housing in an area that is in great need of these homes."
The Toppins Field Masterplan is anticipated to be completed within two to two-and-a-half years from the granting of planning permission.
The PPP was announced by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.