"When I saw Russell Cove on the website www. russellcove. com I was taken back by the quality of the design and architecture and particularly with its location on the River Shannon, " explained Shearer.

"The five-star turnkey furnished package means we don't have to spend time worrying about interior design. The high-spec includes executive Sony technology, along with pre-installed broadband connection. . . well, just about everything I could wish for in an all-year-round second home."

But you don't have to be a celebrity or sports star to buy here. Although over half the development is already sold, the remaining units offer buyers who are looking for either a holiday home or an upmarket rental investment plenty of choice. And with Section 23 tax designation, it also includes attractive tax benefits.

In this mixed development of 72 units - comprised of oneand two-bed apartments, three-bed penthouses and townhouses as well as threebed semi-detached and 4-bed detached houses - 43 units remain for sale following the launch this week.

The development has been specifically designed to incorporate Connell Quay, a purpose-built state-of-the-art marina, as the centre piece, strategically located on the Woodford River and connecting to the Shannon-Erne Waterway. The location is key as the development is beside the Slieve Russell hotel, golf and leisure complex, one of Ireland's top 'lifestyle' venues.

Russell Cove, set on a 7.5acre site, was designed by architects McDonnell Dixon and the landscaping is by awardwinning landscape architect Desmond Fitzgerald. The interior designs by Bronwyn Laburn are sleek, stylish and contemporary.

The development is ideal for those who want a hasslefree holiday home and, with the appointment of Self Catering Ireland as agents for Russell Cove, buyers can also make their investment work for them through the holiday rental scheme if they choose.

Need to know

Price: two-bed apartment from Euro495,000; three-bed two-storey townhouse from Euro710,000; four-bed semi-detached with private garden from Euro740,000 Size of unit: two-beds c 778sq ft; three-beds c 1,259sq ft; four-beds c 1,260sq ft Standard features: All units come with Drago cruiser and 10-year marina lease. Interiors include latte finish kitchens, porcelain tiles, steel appliances, recessed lighting, fitted wardrobes, all appliances, all furnishings - including dining suites, carpets and floorings, accessories, even pictures on walls - and executive Sony home-entertainment systems Size of development: 72 apartments and houses Onsite facilities: private residents marina, extensive landscaping, individually designed gardens and private spaces, boulevards lined with willow trees, five-star, turnkey furniture package, onsite helipad, 24/7 onsite security, CCTV, two adult memberships to the Slieve Russell Golf Club and Leisure Complex Completion: June 2008 Distance from Dublin: 1.5 hours Agent: Connect 2, 1890 532 532