Tánaiste turns the sod on a HBFI Funded Residential Development in Drogheda
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Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Simon Harris T.D., today turned the sod on a significant, mixed-tenure residential development in Drogheda that has the potential to deliver 663 new homes.
The project, led by Manley Homes, has already delivered 425 much‑needed homes for the area, with a further 76 under construction and potential for a further 162 units.
The Tánaiste was joined at the event by the Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, John Cummins T.D.
The project is supported with funding from Home Building Finance Ireland (HBFI), an agency under the remit of the Department of Finance.
The Tánaiste welcomed the delivery of both private and public housing on the site with 395 homes delivered to the private market to date.
Some 30 units were handed over to Meath County Council in March 2026, a further 26 are under construction for Meath Country Council and an additional 50 units are being developed for sale to Oaklee Approved Housing body, with an expected handover date of September 2026.
Speaking at the site in Drogheda, the Tánaiste said:
“I am delighted to be here today in Drogheda to see first-hand the 425 units completed to date on this regional significant mixed-tenure housing development, led by Manley Homes and funded by Home Building Finance Ireland. This development, upon completion, has the potential to deliver up to 663 new homes – bringing great benefits to the local area both socially and economically.
“This is an excellent example of the impact that HBFI can have in supporting a SME builder in a more regional location. HBFI funding is critical for those builders who find access to finance difficult because of either their size, the location or both. At a time when we are experiencing significant housing challenges, the positive role being played by HBFI is so important.
“I wish Manley Homes well in their further construction and look forward to seeing this project progress in the months ahead with the completion of more homes and amenities for the local area.”
Also speaking today, Minister Cummins said:
“This development is a strong example of what can be achieved through effective partnership with the private sector, the local authority and an Approved Housing Body working together to deliver much-needed homes for people.
“Last year, we delivered over 36,000 homes across the country which is a significant step forward and it’s vital that we continue to build on that momentum to meet growing demand.
“I look forward to seeing families move into their new homes here and becoming part of a thriving community.”
Dara Deering, CEO of HBFI said:
“HBFI is pleased to attend today’s site visit with the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance and Manley Homes. Since 2021, we have been supporting Manley Homes and other partners on this scheme, enabling the delivery of much needed homes for the private market, alongside public homes through strong partnerships.
This development is a good example of how HBFI funding can support housebuilders in scaling delivery in regional towns.”
Gabriel Manley of Manley Homes said:
“Manley’s are a mid-sized regional development company based in Duleek Co Meath delivering new homes for over 35 years, we are delighted to have been given the opportunity to showcase our development at Avourwen in Drogheda, Co. Meath at this event with the Tánaiste Simon Harris.
Manley’s have been working successfully with the HBFI as our funding partner at Avourwen for over 6 years now and together we will have delivered over 650 new homes in south Drogheda. Based in Meath we currently have a pipeline of sites that could deliver a further 800 to 900 homes in the coming years.”
Notes:
Site Information:
- Location: Avourwen, Platin Road, Drogheda, Co. Meath.
- Homes: 663 new homes, comprising 395 homes for the private market, 106 for social purposes and a further 162 units in the pipeline.
- The site was commenced in 2019 and has been under development by Manleys since, with over 425 units completed and sold.
- At present, Manley Developments have 32 staff employed between their HQ in Duleek and site based.
- Manleys are also active another site in North Drogheda, bringing over 120 units to the private market.
HBFI’s Role in Supporting Housing Delivery:
- Since its establishment in 2019, HBFI has approved over €3.3 billion in funding.
- This has potential to support nearly 17,000 homes across 233 developments in 25 counties.
- 82% of HBFI loans are €20 million or less, demonstrating its strong backing of small and medium‑sized builders.
- Over 40% of homes supported by HBFI to date are social and affordable units.
- In 2026, HBFI secured an additional €200 million in funding, strengthening its ability to respond to financing gaps and accelerate housing delivery in areas where it is most needed.