A prime residential property in Foxrock, South County Dublin, formerly serving as the residence of a foreign ambassador, has been listed for sale with an asking price of €3.25 million. The 0.7-acre site, located on Westminster Road, is being marketed by Lisney Sotheby’s International Realty, which highlights the parcel’s significant potential for high-density residential development, subject to planning permission.
Why Foxrock remains a prime target for developers
Foxrock consistently ranks as one of Dublin’s most affluent suburbs, characterized by large, detached period homes and expansive garden plots. According to data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), residential property prices in the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown area remain among the highest in Ireland. The scarcity of available land in this mature neighborhood drives interest from developers looking to maximize unit yields. By subdividing large legacy plots, developers can often secure planning for multiple high-end townhouses or apartments, a strategy that has become increasingly common on roads like Westminster, Torquay, and Brighton.
What are the development possibilities for the site?
The property’s value is driven by its zoning and physical footprint rather than just the existing structure. Under the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Development Plan, the site falls under residential zoning, which encourages the efficient use of serviced land. While the existing residence offers a period aesthetic, the land area allows for a “back-land” development or a complete site redevelopment. Real estate analysts note that properties of this size in South Dublin frequently trade at a premium because they offer a “blank canvas” for multi-unit projects, provided the design maintains the character of the surrounding Architectural Conservation Area (ACA).
How does this listing compare to recent local sales?
The €3.25 million price tag reflects the current market demand for development-ready sites in prime Dublin locations. When compared to typical suburban sales, this price-per-acre is higher than standard residential plots but aligns with recent transactions involving “infill” sites.
| Factor | Market Context |
|---|---|
| Location | Foxrock (Prime D18) |
| Site Size | Approx. 0.7 acres |
| Primary Driver | Development potential/Density |
| Market Trend | High demand for multi-unit infill |
What happens next for the property?
Prospective buyers will likely conduct a pre-planning consultation with the Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown planning department before finalizing a bid. According to standard industry practice in Ireland, developers often include “subject to planning” clauses in their offers to mitigate risk. The outcome of the sale will depend on the buyer’s ability to demonstrate that a proposed development plan complies with local density guidelines and environmental standards set by the council. Given the history of the property as a diplomatic residence, any sale will also be subject to the standard legal conveyancing processes required for high-value commercial and residential assets.
Key Takeaways
- Location: The site is located on Westminster Road, Foxrock, a premier residential address in Dublin.
- Pricing: The property is listed at €3.25 million, reflecting its value as a development opportunity.
- Potential: The 0.7-acre plot is suitable for residential densification, provided it meets local planning authority criteria.
- Market Context: Demand for large, developable plots in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown continues to exceed supply.