RedevelopmentLands:One of the best sites to come on the market in Arklow for years will probably be redeveloped for a substantial mixed-use scheme, writes Jack Fagan.

A spectacular waterfront site ideal for a mixed-use development in Arklow, Co Wicklow, is to be sold by tender on June 7th.

Savills HOK is handling the sale of the 13-acre plot of land which will become available when the present occupiers Qualceram Shires plc move to a new facility in Arklow.

Though no price is being quoted for the site, which has water on three of the four sides, it is thought likely that it should sell for over €40 million.

The location could hardly be better. The site faces directly onto the beach with Arklow Harbour on the western boundary, the Avoca river along the northern side and Arklow's 18-hole golf course to the south.

The availability of the land for a high quality mixed-use development coincides with the completion of the nearby Bridgewater shopping centre which will provide a major boost for the town when it opens this autumn.

It will have 37,000sq m (398,264sq ft) of retail and leisure facilities, including some of the biggest names in shopping.

Several other mixed-use schemes are being planned for the harbour area to capitalise on the superb views.

Arklow has been designated as a town suitable for large growth in the years ahead. It is now a fast 68kms journey to Dublin city because of continuous improvements to the N11. Though the Qualceram Shires site contains a range of industrial and office buildings, the true value of the property lies in a high density, mixed-use development that will enhance the area.

The present zoning of the entire 13 acres, "WDZ" or Waterfront development zone, will allow a variety of uses, including residential, retail, offices and hotels. The development plan also supports the principle of a high density scheme, pointing out that "high buildings will be encouraged on sites overlooking the Avoca river and the coast".

Jonathan Preston of Savills HOK has predicted that the site will have tall buildings as the focal point of what is likely to be a distinctive, landmark scheme along the coast.

The site, he said, would allow for a large number of residential units over retail and leisure facilities on the lower floors. There would also be scope to provide an office element as well.

Apart from the huge number of owner-occupiers who would want to live on the site, he believed there was scope also to sell homes to many families who avail of the marina facilities.