Modular homes mooted for historic Claremorris estate

A historic country manor outside Claremorris is being considered for accommodating refugees from Ukraine. 

Castlemacgarrett House, which is situated 4 kilometres from the town, was offered to the government in 2023 to accommodate Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection (BOTPs)

An offer made to use the grounds as a site for modular housing for Ukrainian refugees and is also being considered. 

The estate was home to the Oranmore Browne family for several centuries, with the main residence constructed following a fire at the old building in 1811.

A castle also stands at the complex which was bought by nursing sisters around 1965 where it became known as Castlemacgarrett Nursing Home.

It was sold again for development in 2006 and now lies vacant.

As the property is in need of significant conversion/refurbishment works it was passed on to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage for assessment under the Emergency Refurbishment (Ukraine) Programme,” said a spokesperson for The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

“As with all offers of accommodation to house BOTPs, but most particularly with regard to those requiring conversion/refurbishment, a detailed assessment must be carried out to ensure the property being offered is being prepared to the required standard and complies with building and fire regulations. If the property is deemed suitable for use, further communication will issue in advance to all elected representatives and other members of the community.”

A property brochure available online details that Castlemacgarret House is situated on 125-acre estate and includes 67 bedrooms, a reception lobby, an oratory, dining room, three offices, two kitchens and 22 bathrooms.

Ukrainian refugees are currently being accommodated in 28 modular houses at an OPW-owned site on the Ballyhaunis Road in Claremorris.

The government aims to erect 700 modular houses in 16 sites across the country to house Ukrainian refugees.