Northwood

Integrated Development:

The lands, circa 250 acres, formed part of the former Santry Demense and had been derelict for more than 25 years. A number of planning applications had been refused prior to 1999 because the lands were zoned for “amenity” use and due to difficulties in servicing them.

McMullan & Co were engaged to assess the potential of unlocking the “servicing” issues, examine with Fingal County Council their requirements with regard to “amenity” use and establish if a viable development could be achieved.

It became clear after almost 12 months research plus extensive discussions with the Council and the local communities, that a viable development was possible. A detailed survey revealed that over 70% of the 10,000 trees, which had been subject to a tree preservation order, were either missing or in need of urgent care; this proved to be crucial in motivating the Council to consider a change of land use. It also helped to establish an “environmental footprint” which provided for the restoration and recreation of many features of the original Demense.

Based on the various studies plus the concept and masterplan developed by McMullan & Co.Fingal County Council proposed a re-zoning/change of use of the lands which was supported by communities and approved. The subsequent planning application was also approved unopposed by the local communities.

In addition to carrying out the initial research and studies plus obtaining planning permission, McMullan & Co managed the initial infrastructure development and the creation of the majority of the public amenity facilities.

The Northwood development was the first “work live and play” integrated development of its scale in Ireland. The development involved the creation of a public park totaling 100 acres, restoration of the walled gardens and temple, planting of 15,000 new trees and restoration of a lake. The commercial development includes circa 2000 apartments, 2 hotels, restaurants, a neighbourhood centre, a leisure complex, 2 nursing homes, a hospital, 2 office parks and a retail park.