Construction starts on 53 homes at major derelict site in north Wicklow

By Hugh O'Farrell Walsh, The Wicklow People

One of Bray’s most prominent derelict sites is finally moving towards full redevelopment. Contractors began accessing the Rockbrae House site in early July, several weeks later than the June mobilisation date previously indicated to councillors.

The activity marks the first visible step in a project that has been years in gestation, shaped by statutory planning procedures, heritage considerations, funding scrutiny and persistent local debate.

Rockbrae House, a 19th‑century Gothic style structure on Vevay Road, has been vacant for years and deteriorated significantly following extensive fire damage in 2023. The building, along with its gate lodge, is now set for demolition to make way for a major social housing scheme.

The development will deliver 53 homes arranged across three blocks, ranging from three to five storeys, and designed to take advantage of the site’s three‑metre slope.

The unit mix includes 21 one bed apartments, 23 two bed apartments and nine three bed townhouses, reflecting the council’s aim to provide a range of accommodation types within a compact urban footprint.

The project received Part 8 approval in late 2025. The council confirmed at the time that demolition and construction could proceed, having completed the required planning assessments.

While the formal notice set out the legal and procedural details, the broader significance for Bray was clear: the long‑vacant landmark was finally on track for redevelopment after years of stagnation.

Progress was briefly interrupted when the Department of Housing raised concerns about the business case and funding allocation, prompting a temporary pause while the council addressed the issues.

By early 2026, councillors were told that tendering for a contractor was underway and that enabling works would begin in June.

The first on site activity underway since early July, representing a modest delay in the mobilisation phase but not one expected to affect the overall timeline.

Early works will include site clearance and archaeological monitoring. Due to the site’s historical significance, specialists will oversee all topsoil stripping to ensure any buried heritage features are identified and protected.

The council also plans to retain and repurpose the original Coach House, preserving a link to the site’s 1875 origins. The roadside boundary walls will be kept where possible, maintaining part of the historic streetscape even as the main building is removed.

Local councillors have long supported the redevelopment of the site but have raised concerns about specific elements of the design.

Cllr Joe Behan previously criticised the proposal to use the Coach House as a bin and bike store, calling the idea “shocking” and arguing that the heritage building should be converted into an additional home.

Cllr Erika Doyle, when cathaoirleach of the district, welcomed the project, saying its central location would reduce car dependency and help address persistent anti‑social behaviour in the area.

Despite the slight delay in contractor access, the overall timeline remains largely unchanged. Construction is expected to take 24 months, putting the project on track for completion and tenant allocation by mid‑2028.

When finished, the development will include 33 parking spaces, a new playground and landscaped public open spaces, providing a significant amenity boost for the neighbourhood.