Launching its second phase this weekend, Shackleton Park, a development by Cairn Homes, is roughly equidistant from Lucan village and Adamstown train station. It's a convenient commute to the city, while parks, schools, Lucan Golf Club, and Lucan village on the banks of the Liffey, make the environs of home, when you're not at work, a potentially pleasant place to be.

The first Shackleton launch of 35 units in May was quickly increased to 70, as they sold out over two weekends off the plans. Now 40 more are being released on Saturday, off plans from a marketing suite on site. The houses come in a range of three- and four-bed options ranging in size from 112 sq m (1,206 sq ft) to 165 sq m (1,775sq ft). Later releases will include apartments.

The initial launch last May started at €295,000, though prices for this release, through agent Hooke & MacDonald, start at €315,000. Marketing manager Ruchika Hassan says that the difference is down to house type (floor area, end of terrace instead of mid-terrace and so on), rather than an increase in line with rapid house price inflation. Nearby three-bed houses, built by Tolmac Construction, were selling for €286,000 at Moyglass Glade in Lucan, when they launched in January of this year.

High-spec

Cairn promise high spec finishes, double glazing, spacious rooms, and quality fittings. The recent boom and bust have made some wary of purchasing off plans, though it’s becoming increasingly prevalent in a house-starved environment. For those who like to try before they buy, Hassan advises taking a trip to Co Meath, where Churchfields, by Cairn Homes, comprises very similar house designs. You could also swing by Cairn’s Parkside on the Malahide Road. Showhouses are on view at each.

According to Hassan, buyers can expect to move in next summer, when showhouses for the next phase of the scheme, which will eventually comprise 1,000 units, will also be on view. Shackleton Park is named for the famous explorer, who had family links to the area.