A large institutional building, Kilmarnock, on 3.4 acres at Military Road, Killiney, Co Dublin, is expected to make in excess of £2.5 million when JacksonStops offer it for sale at auction on July 5th.

The original house dating from the 18th century was remodelled in the 1840s and extended in the 1950s to bring the accommodation up to 20,000 sq ft. The building is hidden behind high walls and was occupied for about 40 years by a French order of nuns.

Although the grounds could easily accommodate a significant number of residential units, it is questionable whether the planners would allow such a development, according to Edwin Dempsey of the selling agents.

The grounds include a villa and a gate lodge. Kilmarnock is used as a management training centre and language school.