The developers behind a controversial nine-storey scheme of almost 500 apartments in north Dublin have offered to lease the entire complex to the State for social housing.

If accepted, the development of 471 apartments at the former Chivers factory in Coolock would be the biggest social housing project yet under the new “enhanced leasing scheme” introduced last year.

Brothers Andrew and Maurice Gillick two years ago asked councillors to rezone the former jam factory for housing with approximately 350 apartments up to five storeys in height proposed.

Reduction in height However, earlier this year following the rezoning, they lodged an application with An Bord Pleanála for 495 apartments in blocks up to 10 storeys. The board granted permission two months ago reducing the height to nine storeys and the number of apartments to 471.