Castlethorn is releasing the second phase of Usher’s Mill, a new neighbourhood on Drogheda’s western edge that blends award‑winning architecture with rigorous sustainability standards. The launch introduces a fresh selection of three‑ and four‑bedroom A‑rated homes designed by O’Mahony Pike and benefitting from direct access to the forthcoming Port Access Northern Cross Route (PANCR).
Location & Connectivity
Usher’s Mill lies five minutes from Drogheda town centre and moments from the M1 motorway, giving commuters swift links to Dublin and Belfast. The new PANCR will provide an additional east–west corridor, reducing local traffic and improving journey times. Frequent rail services from Drogheda MacBride Station are within a 10‑minute drive.
Design & Specification
Phase 2 introduces a choice of three-bed mid-terrace and four-bed end-terrace or semi-detached homes, each designed by O’Mahony Pike Architects and ranging from 109 m² to 145 m² (final figures to be verified). Every property targets a BER A2 rating (≤ 45 kWh/m²/yr), achieved through triple-glazed windows, high-performance insulation and an airtight, fabric-first blockwork envelope. Comfort is maximised with:
- Air-to-water heat-pump system and smart controls for efficient heating and hot water
- Demand-controlled mechanical extraction, maintaining indoor air quality without wasting energy
- EV-charging readiness, with each unit pre-wired for a personal wallbox
- Private rear gardens complemented by extensive landscaped greenspaces for the whole community
Sustainability Credentials
Each Phase 2 unit follows Castlethorn’s fabric‑first standard, combining airtight membranes, low‑U‑value insulation and solar‑optimized orientation. In line with Home Performance Index (HPI) Silver criteria, the homes include low‑flow sanitary ware and responsibly sourced timber. A life‑cycle assessment indicates an approximate 30% reduction in embodied carbon versus the 2010 baseline.
Buyer Assistance Programmes
Many purchasers can combine national grants with mortgage relief to reduce upfront costs. If you are new to these schemes, start with our Help‑to‑Buy Scheme 2025 Checklist.
- Help-to-Buy (HTB) Tax Rebate: First-time buyers can claim up to €30,000 towards their deposit, and every Phase 2 home qualifies.
- First Home Scheme (Shared Equity): The State can take up to a 30 % equity stake, lowering the mortgage required on eligible three-bed mid-terrace houses.
Tip: Combine Help‑to‑Buy with the First Home Scheme to reduce the deposit and mortgage required (subject to lender approval).
Conclusion
Usher’s Mill Phase 2 builds on the success of the first release by pairing thoughtful architecture with proven sustainability measures—delivering A‑rated family homes within walking distance of schools, green space and the future PANCR route. Show homes were open on‑site from June 2025, and legal packs will be issued from mid‑July 2025, with a 1% booking deposit payable upon contract signing. The first handovers are scheduled for Q1 2026.
