Kinsale Georgian villa bought by US billionaire for €4.75m has been virtually demolished

Owner James Berwind, who has since snapped up other properties around Kinsale totaling as much as €20m, was granted permission by Cork County Council for 'redevelopment and renovation' of the early 1800s property

The near total demolition of the period home on the scenic south Cork coastal Sandycove came after Cork County Council granted permission for 'redevelopment and renovation' of the property. Picture Dan Linehan

A Georgian villa near Kinsale bought for €4.75m by a US billionaire just two years ago as part of an ongoing property splurge has been virtually demolished.

Just the front and part side walls of the 200-year old Sprayfield House are left standing, pending rebuilding and enlargement.