Saoirse Ronan Receives Approval for West Cork Home Redesign

After a previous application was rejected, Irish actress Saoirse Ronan has been granted planning permission to demolish her existing home and build a new, single-story farmhouse-style dwelling in Ballydehob, County Cork. The approval comes after revisions were made to address concerns about the property’s impact on the surrounding landscape.

Initial Plans and Rejection

Ronan initially submitted plans to Cork County Council in October 2024, but the application was refused. The council determined that the proposed development would not integrate appropriately into the rural coastal landscape and would negatively affect the visual amenities of the area. The Journal reported on the initial refusal.

Revised Plans and Approval

Instead of appealing the decision, Ronan’s company, Slaney Productions UC, submitted revised plans in December 2024. These plans included relocating the proposed home to a lower site on the sloping field and moving it closer to the existing structure, reducing its visual impact. The size of the new home was also reduced to 320 square meters, further minimizing its environmental footprint. Western People detailed the changes and subsequent approval on March 21, 2026.

Property Details and Design

Ronan purchased the 2.6-acre property at Foilnamuck, Ballydehob, for €650,000 in 2020. The existing dwelling is a two-story building measuring 125 square meters. The approved plans call for a “high quality” single-story farmhouse-style home. Architects Clancy Moore stated the design aims to blend harmoniously with the landscape, matching the height and form of surrounding buildings although maintaining its own distinct character.

Family Life and Future Plans

The new home is intended to be a long-term residence for Ronan and her family. Ronan married her partner, Jack Lowden, in July 2024, and the couple welcomed their first child last year. The architect emphasized to the council that the property was not intended to be a holiday home, stating that Ronan “has to live somewhere.”

Addressing Structural Concerns

A report by Clancy Moore Architects highlighted that the existing dwelling suffers from multiple deficiencies, failing to meet current building regulations regarding ventilation, fire safety, escape routes, and accessibility. Floor-to-ceiling heights were also deemed insufficient for habitable spaces, justifying the demolition.

Council Conditions

Cork County Council attached 15 conditions to the planning permission, ultimately concluding that the revised scheme “would not seriously injure the amenities of the area.”