Athenry News & Views Summer 2026

Summer 2026

Recently, local councillors approved an additional affordable housing scheme at Raheen, comprising 28 houses on the vacant site near the Raheen Woods end of the Byrne Mech Road. It is hoped construction will commence before the end of the year. In addition, there are currently 16 houses under construction at Páirc na Rí on the Tuam Road, 20 at An Cheathrú Bán, 49 at Gortnahown near the cemetery and 36 at Caheroyan. Collectively, these developments will provide a welcome boost to local housing supply. Despite these positive developments, house prices remain high and securing affordable accommodation continues to be a major challenge for many people. Urban Framework Plan Galway County Council is currently preparing an Urban Framework Plan for a significant area of development land at Ballydavid South/Caheroyan. The framework will provide a detailed blueprint for future development, including housing, road infrastructure, pedestrian and cycling connectivity, neighbourhood facilities, public amenities and open spaces. The lands concerned are located to the rear of the existing housing estates along the Tuam Road and New Line and extend as far as the proposed route of the Northern Ring Road, which has yet to be constructed in that area. By planning the overall layout in advance, it is hoped that the problems associated with piecemeal development can be avoided and that the land bank can be developed in a coordinated, sustainable and community-friendly manner. The plan is expected to be completed by the end of June. Having an agreed framework in place will also strengthen applications for funding to complete the final section of the Northern Ring Road and support engagement with Uisce Éireann and ESB Networks regarding the delivery of essential services to the area.

Affordable Housing Housing remains one of the most pressing issues facing families and individuals across the country. Delivering new homes continues to be challenging due to a range of factors, including difficulties accessing development finance, rising construction costs and the provision of essential services such as water, wastewater and electricity. There is, however, some welcome progress locally which will provide homes for a significant number of people within the community. At present, approximately 260 homes are under construction in Athenry, with a further 70-plus homes granted planning permission and additional developments at pre-planning stage. Of the 260 homes currently under construction, 106 will be delivered through an Affordable Housing Scheme. The first phase of Fearann na hEascrach, located beside the Raheen pitches, has already opened for expressions of interest. This initial phase comprises 33 houses, with further phases of 48 and 25 homes scheduled for release next year. Under the Affordable Purchase Scheme, Galway County Council will make these homes available at reduced prices to first-time buyers and other eligible applicants. The purchase price is linked to household income and mortgage capacity, providing greater opportunities for people to secure home ownership. It is a positive development and one that many hope will be expanded in the future. Galway County Council News By: Cllr. Peter Feeney

Affordable housing at Fearann na hEascrach beside Raheen sports grounds

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