In a notable development within Ireland’s property market, a 21-acre clifftop site overlooking the picturesque Magheramore Beach near Brittas Bay in County Wicklow has been sold to an unidentified Chinese investor for €613,000. This transaction, finalized at a recent BidX1 auction, has sparked considerable interest and speculation regarding the future of this scenic property.​

Background of the Property

Originally owned by the Columban Sisters until its sale in the 1980s, the Magheramore Beach site has changed hands multiple times over the decades. In 2021, prominent developer Paddy McKillen Jr.’s company, Oakmount, acquired the property for €700,000, significantly above the €210,000 guide price at that time. The site’s allure is heightened by its proximity to Magheramore Beach, a secluded cove renowned among surfers and filmmakers alike. The beach has served as a backdrop for various television productions, including historical dramas such as “Vikings” and “Camelot,” as well as the “EastEnders” spin-off series “Redwater” and Amy Huberman’s “Finding Joy.”​

Development Attempts and Planning Challenges

Following the acquisition, McKillen Jr.’s subsidiary, Creatively Pacific Ltd, proposed an ambitious plan to develop an integrated tourism and leisure complex on a 2.95-hectare portion of the site. The envisioned €40 million project included 48 accommodation pods and a surf school facility, aiming to capitalize on the area’s natural beauty and existing popularity among water sports enthusiasts. However, in May 2023, Wicklow County Council rejected the planning application, citing concerns over environmental impact and sustainability. An appeal to An Bord Pleanála was subsequently dismissed on January 29, 2025, effectively halting the project’s progression.

The Recent Sale and Financial Implications

The recent sale of the property at €613,000 represents an 11% premium over the €550,000 guide price set for the auction. Despite this, the sale price falls short of the €700,000 that Oakmount paid in 2021, indicating a financial loss for McKillen Jr.’s firm. The identity of the new owner remains undisclosed, adding an element of intrigue to the transaction. It is understood that the investor is based in Ireland, but further details have not been made public.​

Community and Environmental Considerations

Magheramore Beach holds a special place in the local community, not only for its natural beauty but also as the venue for the annual “Dip in the Nip,” a charity event raising funds for cancer research. The beach’s significance underscores the importance of any future development aligning with the community’s values and environmental preservation. Previous development proposals faced opposition due to potential ecological impacts, highlighting the delicate balance between economic interests and environmental stewardship in such pristine locations.​

Speculations and Future Prospects

The acquisition by a Chinese investor has led to widespread speculation about the site’s future. Given the previous planning challenges, it remains uncertain whether the new owner will pursue similar development ambitions or adopt a different approach that aligns more closely with local planning guidelines and community expectations. The property’s history suggests that any development efforts will require careful navigation of regulatory frameworks and proactive engagement with local stakeholders.​

The sale of the Magheramore Beach site marks a significant moment in the ongoing narrative of this coveted property. As the new owner contemplates potential uses for the land, the broader community watches with keen interest, hopeful that future plans will respect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Magheramore Beach. This development serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in balancing investment, development, and environmental conservation in areas of outstanding natural beauty.

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