Site with planning on the doorstep of Killeen Castle

The Killeen and Dunsany areas have always been highly sought-after, for a number of reasons. One of the main ones is the visual attraction of the area, one of the few parts of the county which can boast fine stands of timber and woodlands which, at this time of year, look resplendent in their autumn colours. This, coupled with the fact that there are two major estates in the area tying up the majority of the land ownership, means that any site or property in the area that comes on the market is in big demand. This is even more so with the transformation of one of those large estates, the once neglected Killeen Castle demesne, into a Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course, and residential development of luxury homes. The course is set to host the Solheim Cup golf competition in 2011 and a number of Ladies" Irish Opens in the preceding years. On the boundaries of the Killeen estate, looking across towards the mature chestnut trees, is a site with plans for a new architect-designed home, recently placed on the market with Foley Auctioneers in Dunshaughlin. Oliver Farrell of Foley Auctioneers says that site is an outstanding one, extending to 0.37 acres, given its location directly adjacent to the prestigious Killeen Castle estate. The site has full planning permission for a stylish, architect-designed, detached residence of approximately 3,130 square feet (excluding the double garage). As permission is already in place, there is no 'local needs" requirement, allowing any purchaser to buy and build straight away. 'It is virtually impossible to obtain full unrestricted planning permission in County Meath, without buying and demolishing an existing house. This is exactly what the vendor has done in this instance and makes this a truly one-off opportunity,' Oliver Farrell says. With unrestricted views of untouched woodlands for as far as the eye can see, the site is only four kilometres from the bustling town of Dunshaughlin. The new M3, which is scheduled for completion in 2010, is minutes from the house and will ensure a speedy trip into Dublin city centre for work or Navan for some weekend shopping. 'The Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, a 12th century Norman castle and a proposed state-of-the-art hotel will ensure that Killeen will soon become one of the most prestigious addresses available in this part of the world,' Mr Farrell added. The orientation of the planned house will ensure residents are bathed in sunlight as they look across the endless acres from their garden, which is not overlooked in any way. The accommodation in the plans includes an entrance hall, guest bedroom, shower room, study, living room, dining room/sun room, kitchen/family room, utility, large double garage/games room on the ground floor, and three bedrooms, with the main en-suite and with walk-in wardrobes, and large bathroom on first floor. The external design is described as beautiful and striking, while the internal design is 'thrillingly contemporary'. The main living spaces have been structured around the path of the sun, which will bathe the rear of the house in light all year long. The back garden will be generous, but not cumbersome, measuring 23 metres by 23 metres. Foley Auctioneers are asking €695,000 for the site. Contact them in Dunshaughlin on (01) 825 9622.