Work began on Esker Pines, a mixed development of three bedroom duplex townhouses and two bedroom apartments beside Lucan village in March this year.

In what must be something of a record for speed, the first occupants are already moving in. Out of a total 27 units, four have been sold since their recent launch.

Still available are 15 two bedroom apartments and eight three bedroom duplex townhouses.

Prices start at £180,000 (228,552) for the apartments and £220,000 (279,342) for the townhouses. On the old Lucan village side of the N4 motorway, a central gate makes for privacy and there are communal, landscaped gardens with feature fountain. Car-parking is included in the price.

Laid out in three blocks, in a cul-de-sac at the end of Esker Lane, most apartments are on the ground floor while townhouses are on the first and second floors.

The developers are Swanward Enterprises Ltd and the architects Damian O'Flynn of Newbridge. Redmond Auctioneers in Rathcoole, Co Dublin, are looking after sales.

The kitchens in all are fully fitted with hob, oven, extractor hood, integrated dishwasher, integrated fridge freezer and washer/dryer.

The two-bedroom apartments, which have 700 sq ft of floor space, have an entrance hall, large living/dining area in which there is a timber surround fireplace with electric, coal effect fire. Both bedrooms have fitted wardrobes while the main bedroom has double doors to the communal gardens. The bathroom has a bath with shower, wash-hand basin and toilet.

The three bedroom duplex has 1,100 sq ft. On the first floor there is a livingroom with timber surround fireplace and an electric coal effect fire.

A double door from the kitchen/dining area leads to a rear balcony. The third bedroom/study is on this level, as is an understairs toilet.

The main and second bedrooms are in the upstairs section, as is a hotpress and family bathroom. The main bedroom is en suite. Showhouses are open at the weekends between 3 p.m. and 5p.m.