Changes have been made to plans for a new housing estate in Laois.

In November, De Bhal Construction Ltd sought planning permission for the construction of 32 additional homes in the existing Rahin Towers estate in Ballylinan.

The new properties would be built on an undeveloped parcel of land within the estate that has been vacant since the 2008 construction crash. 

On Thursday December 18, a new application was submitted to Laois County Council, seeking permission for 30 homes instead.

The plans propose the construction of 12 four-bedroom semi-detached homes, and 6 three-bedroom homes. The company also hopes to construct 6 two story homes, consisting of 2 end of terrace homes, 2 semi-detached homes, and 2 mid-terraced houses.

Plans also include the construction of 2 three-bedroom semi-detached homes and 4 one-bedroom duplex units. The project will also include associated siteworks such as landscaping, site lighting, site services and road works.

"The scheme completes the final undeveloped parcel within the existing Rahin Towers estate and represents a significant upgrade to the public realm, including the removal of redundant hammerheads and the comprehensive re-landscaping of open spaces to create a high-quality, integrated neighbourhood," the planning application reads.

"This proposal now delivers a balanced mix of unit types in line with current planning policy and the “Residential 1 – Established” zoning objective under the Laois County Development Plan," the application states.

Submissions to Laois County Council on the development close on January 30, 2026, with a decision on the application from Laois County Council due on February 20, 2026.

Another application for a housing development in Ballylinan was made by Liam Kelly / Sammy Kelly Builders, proposed for the disused quarry. Read more here.

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