DevelopmentLand:One of the best located development sites to come on the market in recent years in Ashford, Co Wicklow, is expected to generate considerable interest when it goes for sale by tender on October 4th.

Clarke Auctioneers is quoting over €12.5 million for the 7.72 hectares (19.08 acres) along the old N11 roadway at Inchanappa, Ashford, which has three different zonings under a local area plan.

The largest part of the site - 3.59 hectares - is zoned for general employment and industry; another 2.14 hectares has been zoned for community and educational developments; while the remaining 1.98 hectares has been designated for open space.

The land occupies a pivotal position at the entrance to Ashford village and is less than 1km from the new N11 bypass which provides dual-carriageway access to Dublin city 40kms away.

The site is adjoined to the south by Ashford national school and on other sides by zoned land. It is in agricultural use and is laid out in two divisions.

Although mains services are available near the site, Clarke Auctioneers say that any future development will depend on the completion of a secondary sewerage treatment plant in Wicklow town which will also service Rathnew and Ashford. Work is due to begin shortly on the provision of such a service.

The agent also points out that preparations are under way for the 2008-2014 local area plan and a background paper has already been produced to aid discussion and stimulate debate.

Ashford is noted for its natural beauty and is home to the renowned Mount Usher Gardens.