53 social homes to be part of historic Wicklow home redevelopment
In total, the plans are for a mix of 21 one-beds, 23 two-beds and nine three-beds, with Rockbrae House itself to become a five-storey building.
The heights across the development will vary, with the lowest on the southside stepping from three to five storeys, and a playground is included in the development as it is over 50 units.
There will be a total of 33 car parking spaces, including one for each of the three-beds.
The Gothic-style two-storey house was first built in the 1870s on lands leased from the Pembroke Estate. The Defence Forces took ownership of the site following the outbreak of World War II and subsequently became the headquarters of the FCA.
In 2005, when the FCA was amalgamated into the Reserves, the facility fell into disrepair and became derelict. The site was also subject to an increase in reports of anti-social behaviour. Following years of prolonged negotiations, it was finally handed over to the local authority in 2022.
A fire gutted the building in April 2023, and, at the November meeting of the district last year, the council announced its intention to build homes on it for social housing, in an effort to address the growing housing needs in the town.
After a preliminary examination, Wicklow County Council has concluded there is no real likelihood of significant effects on the environment arising from the proposed development. Therefore, an environmental impact assessment is not required.
A screening of the proposed development has also taken place, with Wicklow County Council determining that it would not be likely to have a significant effect on a European site. Work has also taken place into clearing the site, with new fencing erected and cameras installed.
Submissions or observations may be made in writing to David Porter, Administrative Officer, Capital Projects Office of Wicklow County Council on or before 12 noon Friday, August 22, 2025.
Submissions and observations should be clearly marked 'Rockbrae House Part 8'. Submissions may also be made by email to part8@wicklowcoco.ie
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