Housing shortage is reaching crisis point in North Kildare

A major shortage of housing in North Kildare is at crisis point, warns a local auctioneer.

Second time buyers, especially, are forced to remain in rental accommodation or homes that are nolonger suitable, according to Will Coonan of REA Coonan.

Difficulty attaining planning permission, the restrictions on getting a mortgage and the sheer shortage of housing is leading to problems throughout North Kildare.

"Construction needs to begin,  the planning process can take 12 to 18months.  It is very difficult for second time buyers to put the finances in place for an acquisition, it is a shock to the system," said Mr Coonan.

Parents with young children wanting to buy a bigger home along with first time buyers are the people largely hit by the housing shortage, warned Mr Coonan.

Meanwhile, joint selling agents REA Coonan and Property Partners Brady, sold a 2.2 acres tract of land on the Maynooth Road, for €1.9million recently.

The property complete with planning is suitable for 26houses.