The Park, which spans 8.5 acres, is situated at the Togher interchange and adjoins the under-construction Iarnrod Eireann National Train Care Facility. The proximity of the train facility is regarded by the developers as a major asset to the park, particularly as the rail company had initially indicated its intention to locate at a different site.

Local auctioneer Paul Stephenson of DNG Kelly Cowen Stephenson, selling agents for the development, describes the initial response from enterprise and business interests as "exceptional. It bodes well for the continued strength of commercial property, " he says. "We knew from the outset that the development was a winner, but I think it is fair to say that the reaction from both investors and tenants has far exceeded our expectations. There has been a broad split so far in the percentages of investors and owner-occupiers with much of the interest coming from Dublin as well as the general environs of Portlaoise.

"A huge number of enquiries are coming from companies with a nationwide profile who are price sensitive and value the savings they can make in this development. Also, canny business people see that they can buy a unit for much the same price as a house, but secure far better returns. Portlaoise is set to grow and grow and people want to invest in secure developments."

David Powell of developers Coolnaleen Developments says the initial phase of the works has gone exactly as planned. "We set out to develop a high-quality business park and our design team led by James Smyth Architects and Contractor Quinn Reddin have achieved just that."

Construction work on a further 16 units will commence in August.

Further information from 01-864 4560; www. nationalenterprisepark. ie.