Property Developer Expands in Mayo with New Office and Housing Projects
A prominent property developer, Sayvale Limited, has made a notable expansion into County Mayo, opening a new office in Castlebar. This move is part of the company’s ambitious strategy to deliver hundreds of new homes, including much-needed affordable housing schemes.
Sayvale Limited, known for its recent developments of 87 homes in Snugboro and 38 nearing completion in Manor Village on Westport Road, is solidifying its presence in the region with a new base on Hopkins Road in Castlebar. The company has also successfully completed projects in Achill, Ballyhaunis, and Charlestown, with further plans underway.
The multi-million-euro investment is led by industry veterans Austin Currie and Tom Corrigan, both of whom have strong connections to the west of Ireland. Currie, the son of SDLP co-founder Austin Currie Sr., and Corrigan, originally from Achill, are committed to addressing Ireland’s ongoing housing crisis. However, they caution that a broader effort is necessary to rejuvenate the industry.
Currie emphasised the desensitisation to the term “housing crisis,” noting that it often fails to resonate with people. Despite Sayvale’s capabilities and experience as a major developer, Currie stressed the need for small builders to re-enter the trade to meet the housing demand. Even if all proposed homes were approved and constructed, it would still fall short of addressing the crisis.
Corrigan, with years of experience working in Dublin, highlighted the benefits of developing in Mayo. He pointed out that, unlike Dublin, where trades come at a premium and accommodation costs are high, Mayo offers local talent and more favourable conditions for development.
Sayvale’s journey began as a modest operation managing €1 to 2 million annually and has now evolved into a €50 million enterprise spanning 11 counties. Currie expressed their focus on Connaught and Ulster, regions they both hail from. For Currie, Mayo holds a special significance, having served as a refuge for his family during the Troubles. He fondly refers to Mayo as a second home, with a family residence in Murrisk.
Sayvale’s portfolio in the region is already impressive and poised for further growth. The company has 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 future plans include reviving more derelict properties, with nearly 10,000 such properties in the county—a challenge they are uniquely equipped to tackle.
Currie underscored the company’s commitment to responsible citizenship, noting that while many developers shy away from restoring older buildings, Sayvale embraces these projects. With a team of architects, engineers, and experts, they are well-equipped to revitalise these properties. Currie encourages those considering renovations to visit their new Castlebar office, conveniently located opposite Dunnes Stores on Hopkins Road.
Drawing from his extensive background at Merrill Lynch in the U.S., London, and Japan, Currie highlighted the importance of connecting new housing to existing infrastructure. Castlebar, with its numerous sites featuring ESB links and town sewer access, presents opportunities to alleviate the housing crisis and attract more residents to the area.
Local elected representatives have welcomed Sayvale’s commitment to the region. Minister of State Alan Dillon initially approached the company regarding Mayo’s growing housing needs. Local Councillor Cyril Burke praised Sayvale’s efforts, recognising the company’s deep community commitment and expertise as crucial to addressing County Mayo’s pressing housing requirements.
