Diageo still looking for partners for the James Gate development project.
Late last year Diageo launched its ambitious new plan to turn part of the Guinness brewery at James Gate into a new development that will operate both as a commercial quarter and also a residential area. While such a development is welcome news in and of itself, many were delighted to hear that Diageo planned to include social housing as part of the residential plan. Considering the location of James Gate, and the pressing need for more social housing people have been keenly attuned for any updates.
However, there has been little in the way of information or new developments in the last few months, so this reporter decided to contact both Diageo, and the Iveagh Trust (the historical social housing partners of the Guinness family) to see if there has been any development. Yesterday, Jeanne MacDonagh, head of corporate and trade communications at Diageo sent me the following reply:
“With regard to St James Gate Quarter – we’re currently engaged in a search for a development partner, and hope to conclude it in the next twelve months. There is no further update on the detail at present”.
As is to be expected, Diageo’s plan is a long term project. It will of course require a lot time effort and negotiation to ensure that not only do they bring in development partners, but they bring in the right development partners for both Diageo and the wider community. And while the ever pressing need for housing continues to dominate, it is encouraging to see that Diageo plans to be key player in the Liberties for the long haul.
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