International intrigue and Government interest in 1,500a mega-holding due for May Day auction
Part of the 1,500-acre farm at Lugnaquilla, Co Wicklow, for auction in Dublin on May 1.
Finding a purchaser for the land opportunity of a lifetime may not be as easy as one might think.
The 1,527-acre land parcel encompassing Ireland’s second-highest peak in Wicklow is to be auctioned in Dublin on May 1. Guiding €2m, its expectations have been reduced by €5m from the figure quoted on the same mega-holding a year ago.
What kind of buyer would be interested in this property when it’s in special area of conservation zone and is subject to grazing rights?
According to Gort-based selling agent Colm Farrell, the potential market is a global one; the prestige of owning a holding that encompasses 925m Lugnaquilla summit, Percy’s Table Plateau and the “Guinness Lake” (Lough Tay) is already a huge draw.
“We have two prominent clients who have professed an interest in the property and have requested contracts,” says Mr Farrell. “One of them is in the Middle East… and the other interested party is looking to buy on behalf of a client.
“Of course, the State would have an interest in it. There is other minimal interest in the property — there have been other requests for contracts.”
