Waterside living holds no fears for film-maker Jim Sheridan whose Dalkey home, Martha's Vineyard, overhanging the sea at Coliemore Road is about to change beyond all recognition. Mr Sheridan has just got permission to demolish the modest two-storey house and build a larger one in its place, complete with guest quarters and an exercise pool. He bought the house about two years ago for £1 million and will now have to spend a good deal more on it. The narrow roadside site will be a challenge to any builder with a portion of the existing house extending out over the sea, prey to the wind and waves.

Meanwhile the film world is waiting to see what Mr Sheridan does next. His last film, The Boxer, was four years ago and he is said to be toying with a couple of ideas, though so far nothing concrete has emerged.