268 new PassivHaus social and Cost Rental homes open in Dublin

Niven Oaks adds 268 energy-efficient homes in Santry as Tuath Housing expands delivery across Fingal

A new development of 268 PassivHaus social and Cost Rental homes has officially opened in Santry, Dublin 9, providing a significant boost to housing supply in the Fingal area.

Niven Oaks comprises 170 social homes and 98 Cost Rental apartments, with all 268 homes built to PassivHaus standard. The opening comes during World Green Building Week, putting a spotlight on the role of highly energy-efficient housing in reducing household energy use and carbon emissions.

The ultra-low energy homes require almost no traditional space heating, helping to significantly reduce energy use and associated costs. Residents will also benefit from a creche facility and indoor and outdoor amenity spaces, including a roof terrace.

The development adds to Tuath Housing’s growing presence in Fingal, where it currently manages more than 2,300 homes, with a further 1,315 homes in its joint development pipeline.

There was also strong demand for the Cost Rental homes at Niven Oaks, with more than 3,000 applications received for the 98 homes.

Niven Oaks has been delivered by Tuath Housing in partnership with Cairn and Fingal County Council. The development has been funded through the Cost Rental Equity Loan (CREL) Scheme obtained through the Housing Agency and Capital Advance Leasing Facility (CALF) via the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, with private finance from the Housing Finance Agency (HFA).

Commenting on the opening, Minister for Housing James Browne said: “This development will provide much-needed new homes for families and individuals in Santry, an area experiencing significant population growth and strong housing demand.

“This development will provide much-needed new homes for families and individuals in Santry, an area experiencing significant population growth and strong housing demand.

“These homes have been built to the internationally recognised ‘Passive House’ standard, ensuring lower energy bills for residents while also reducing emissions and supporting our climate objectives.

“This development is a tangible example of our investment in housing as a Government and the progress that is being made right across the country.

“We are seeing momentum build, with more homes being delivered and more people benefiting from secure, high-quality housing. I have been relentless in driving the reforms needed to accelerate delivery, and we will continue to do what is necessary to get projects moving and keys in people’s hands.”

Richard Pike, Chair of Tuath Housing said: “This is a key development for Tuath, and an example of collaboration between private, public and voluntary partners in action. The homes here are finished to the highest standard, and thanks to their PassivHaus status, will offer residents real comfort and energy efficiency for years to come.”

Michael Stanley, Chief Executive of Cairn said the development demonstrated the impact of partnership in housing delivery: “We are proud to partner with Tuath Housing and Fingal County Council to deliver 268 new apartments at Niven Oaks. This development will make a real difference by giving more people access to high-quality, affordable homes built to PassivHaus standard, ensuring residents benefit from exceptional energy efficiency and lower household energy costs.

“The completion of Niven Oaks, following the neighbouring development in Whitehaven, highlights what can be achieved when delivery partners and local authorities work together to create greener, more connected communities where people can put down roots and thrive.”

Speaking at the opening, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tony Murphy added: “The delivery of Niven Oaks is a significant achievement for Fingal and demonstrates what can be achieved when Fingal County Council, Tuath Housing and Cairn work together with a shared commitment to meeting local housing needs. This is a fabulous development that will provide residents with secure, sustainable and affordable homes, giving individuals and families the opportunity to put down roots, build their future and become part of a strong and connected new community.”