Developer in ambitious plan to deliver hundreds of new Mayo homes
by Caoimhín Rowland
A major property developer has made a significant move into Mayo, opening a new office in Castlebar as part of an ambitious plan to deliver hundreds of new homes - including much sought after affordable schemes.
Sayvale Limited, the firm behind 87 new homes in Snugboro and 38 nearing completion in Manor Village on the Westport Road, Castlebar, is cementing its commitment to the region with a new base on Hopkins Road in the county town.
The company has also completed projects in Achill, Ballyhaunis and Charlestown and has other plans in the pipeline.
Spearheading the multi-million-euro investment are Austin Currie and Tom Corrigan, two industry veterans with deep ties to the west of Ireland.
Currie, son of SDLP co-founder Austin Currie Sr., and Corrigan, an Achill native, are eager to help tackle Ireland’s ongoing housing crisis. However, they warn that broader efforts are needed to revive the industry.
“People have become numb to the words ‘housing crisis’. It flies off them,” Currie remarked.
“We’re a big developer with in-house capabilities and experience, but we desperately need to see small builders back in the trade. Even if all the homes in planning were approved and built it wouldn’t be enough.”
Corrigan, who spent years working in Dublin, highlights the advantages of developing in Mayo.
“Compared to Dublin, where you’re paying a premium for trades and factoring in accommodation, it’s different here. The talent exists locally.”
What began as a modest operation handling €1 to 2 million annually has now grown into a €50 million enterprise spanning 11 counties.
“We’re trying to focus on Connaught and Ulster, where we’re both from,” said Currie.
His connection to Mayo runs deep, as it was a refuge for his family during the Troubles.
“Mayo has been a home away from home. We have a house in Murrisk and love it here.”
Sayvale’s portfolio in the region is already impressive and preparing to grow further, having transformed the Connaught Bar in Charlestown into apartments, redeveloped former Bank of Ireland buildings in Charlestown and Ballyhaunis, and renovated the Atlantic Hotel in Achill.
Their next step is to revive more derelict properties - with almost 10,000 in the county it is a challenge they are uniquely equipped to handle.
“There’s a real sense of responsible citizenship in what we do,” Currie stated.
“Many developers shy away from restoring older buildings, but we embrace these projects. We have the architects, engineers, and expertise to bring these properties back to life.”
He encourages those considering renovations to visit their new Castlebar office, located opposite Dunnes Stores on Hopkins’ Road.
Drawing from his background at Merrill Lynch in the U.S., London and Japan, Currie stresses the importance of connecting new housing to existing infrastructure.
“Castlebar has so many sites with ESB links and town sewer access. These could all help alleviate the housing crisis and attract more people to the area.”
Local elected representatives are welcoming Sayvale’s commitment.
Indeed, an initial approach was made to him by Minister of State Alan Dillon in respect of Mayo's growing housing need.
Local Councillor Cyril Burke praised the company’s efforts. “Sayvale has a deep community commitment and the expertise to help County Mayo in its pursuit of much-needed housing,” he stated.