Wicklow Developments: Rathnew is set for rapid expansion if two major planning applications to Wicklow County Council are succesful.

Limerick-based Chieftain Construction is looking to build 201 apartments and 22 semi-detached and detached houses on a 15-acre site at Bollarney north, near the Lakelands-Knockrobin residential area. A three-acre portion of the site will be set aside for social and affordable housing.

About half a mile from the Chieftain Construction site opposite the Peppard Nissan-Chevrolet showrooms, developer Noel Heatley is looking to build 109 apartments and 27 semi-detached and detached houses on a seven-acre site, of which one acre will be for social and affordable housing.

Wicklow County Council has designated Rathnew a growth centre. Rathnew and Wicklow town have already benefited from the extension of the M11 motorway and the upgraded N11 dual carriageway which has shortened commuting times. A new mains drainage scheme is to be completed by 2006.