Laois site considered for Ukraine rapid-build housing estate

Laois may be getting its first modular housing estate to give temporary homes to Ukraine war refugee families.

Two adjoining fields on the Golf Links Road in Rathdowney have been identified by Laois County Council as a possible suitable site for 30 rapid build homes.

They could be ready within months of construction starting next year.

Officials from the Office of Public Works have already come to Laois to inspect the site for suitability.

Laois County Council senior officer Carmel McNichol gave an update at the monthly meeting on Monday, November 28.

“The site was identified by the OPW and the site investigation was held last week. We have heard nothing further from the OPW as of today. It is a preferred site in Laois. It is a substantial site.

“A layout was provided of how a potential site might look. The homes would be built to the hightest standard, and the site finished to the highest standards.

“There will be a further opportunity for engagement at local level before this proceeds. It would be prudent to wait for official confirmation from the OPW,” Ms McNichol said.

Local Cllr John King urged consultation with the public at this stage.

“I’ve been asked by people in Rathdowney. Is there 30 modular homes planned and what is the time delivery? If the site is found to be suitable, work could start very soon, would there be modular homes started next near?” he asked.

“We understand that that the OPW build would move very quickly. Most likely if suitable, they will start early in the New Year. The building timeframe would be quite short because of the nature of modular homes,” the council official said.

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Laois is currently giving accommodation to about 750 Ukrainian people who have fled the Russian invasion of their country. In total, Ireland is offering refuge to some 60,000 Ukraine war refugees. 

The modular homes to help Ukraine refugees have been exempted from the planning process by the Government to speed up delivery.

Protests have taken place over similar housing plans in Kildare and Dublin.