In response to detailed queries submitted by Kfm, including when the decision was made, what cost factors were considered, and what alternative delivery models are under consideration - the Department issued only a short statement confirming that the pause was decided on June 3 due to “overall costs for the project being considered too high.”
The Department of Housing has refused to directly answer key questions about the sudden decision to halt a social housing project in Athy, despite the development being on the brink of construction.
The 79-unit scheme, part of Public Private Partnership (PPP) Bundle 3, had already secured planning permission and an assigned contractor when the Department instructed the National Development Finance Agency (NDFA) not to proceed with awarding the contract.
In response to detailed queries submitted by Kfm - including when the decision was made, what cost factors were considered, and what alternative delivery models are under consideration - the Department issued only a short statement confirming that the pause was decided on June 3 due to “overall costs for the project being considered too high.”
No further explanation was provided regarding the specific cost-related thresholds or comparisons that informed the decision.
Kfm understands that the Department of Housing believes some of the information would be too commercially "sensitive" to release.
The Department added only that it remains “fully committed” to delivering the housing included in PPP Bundle 3, and that it is working with the NDFA and the four local authorities involved to identify alternative strategies.
Local representatives in the Athy Municipal District have now called for an immediate meeting with the Minister for Housing and senior officials in the Department.
The Ardrew project was part of a broader national strategy to deliver social housing through PPPs, a model that has now been thrown into question.
The Department has also initiated a wider review of future PPP housing bundles, though no timeline or consultation framework has been disclosed.
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New Cultural Programme Set For Castletown House
Celbridge Woman Who Lost Sister To CF Calls For People To Support Today's Fundraiser
Protestors, Including Kildare's John Dallon, Refused Entry From Government And Agriculture Bodies Meeting
Defence Forces Travelling To The Curragh Today For Training
Newbridge Silverware’s Silver-plated Cutlery Factory Officially Closes
Martin Heydon Will Meet Farming And Haulier Groups This Morning Amid Fuel Protests
Missing 17-Year-Old Joshua Treacy From Maynooth Has Been Located
