Taoiseach, Mr. Micheál Martin TD, presided over a ceremonial foundation stone laying to officially commence construction of 345 cost rental homes, developed in partnership with the Land Development Agency (LDA), along side An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin TD – laying the foundation stone Padraic Rhatigan, Managing Director, The Rhatigan Group and Phelim O’Neill, Director of Development, Land Development Agency. As part of the event, An Taoiseach toured the offices of ARM and Trinzo – recently established clients in one of the newly completed office buildings. Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure
An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD has officially launched Crown Square, a €550 million urban development on Galway’s east side, describing it as “a key project for the city” that will deliver high-quality housing, office space, and hotel accommodation, while creating a new civic and commercial centre for the region.
The event marked the commencement of construction on 345 cost rental homes — a partnership between the Rhatigan Group and the Land Development Agency (LDA) — but the development’s commercial significance is already taking shape. With two office buildings completed and occupied, and a further phase due to commence later this year, Crown Square represents a major opportunity for companies looking to establish or expand their presence in Galway.
Speaking at the official launch, the Taoiseach highlighted the scale and ambition of the development:
“This development will see the creation of a vibrant new community, with the LDA and the Rhatigan Group partnering to deliver 345 much-needed cost rental and social homes. This is again another example of the Government’s ongoing commitment to addressing our housing needs.”
New Commercial District Taking Shape
While much attention has been placed on the residential and hospitality aspects of the scheme — including the recently opened Radisson RED Hotel, the first of its kind in Ireland — the commercial components of Crown Square have quietly been redefining Galway’s office landscape.
Two completed office buildings now accommodate organisations such as ARM, Arup Consulting, Trinzo, and Uisce Éireann, with Galway City Council set to relocate over 800 public sector staff to the campus. In total, Phase 1 will support 1,250 long-term office roles, with capacity for 1,200 more planned in the final phase of development.
According to Padraic Rhatigan, Managing Director of The Rhatigan Group, Crown Square was conceived not only as a mixed-use project but as a “sustainable urban campus designed to meet the evolving needs of modern businesses.”
“We are proud to deliver high-specification commercial space in a location that offers accessibility, visibility, and integration with housing and hospitality,” he said.
Strategic Location and Workforce Access
Situated on a 12.65-acre site along the Monivea Road, adjacent to key arterial routes and within easy reach of the city’s universities and research centres, Crown Square has been deliberately positioned to attract commercial tenants across sectors. The design aligns with the Galway City Development Plan 2023–2029 and reflects national objectives around sustainable compact growth.
The development’s proximity to talent and its alignment with the 15-minute city model — ensuring access to services, transport, and amenities — have been noted by early occupiers. Flexible layouts, energy-efficient design, and modern facilities further add to the appeal for companies seeking to scale or relocate within the region.
Looking Ahead
The final phase of development, due to commence in Q4 2025, will bring additional office space and the potential for further residential units, cementing Crown Square’s role as a central piece of Galway’s economic and spatial future.
For now, as the Taoiseach’s visit signals national support for the project, the opportunity for commercial occupiers is clear: Crown Square is not just another development — it is a new district, built for the needs of tomorrow’s workforce and economy.
Visit crownsquare.ie
