McKelan Construction Ltd is a multi-disciplined building firm which has carved a niche for itself in the highly-specialised car showroom construction sector.
Motor vehicles are a key part of our lives, and often a substantial investment, so McKelan Construction understands the importance of car showrooms. They need to be not only aesthetically pleasing and operate effectively for great customer service, but also be sustainable, efficient and fit for purpose.
Each project is unique and tailored to the client’s exact needs, incorporating key requirements such as car storage space, lighting, segregation of customers, retail staff and servicing centres. McKelan Construction boasts an impressive track record in delivering car showroom projects, from new build projects to fitouts and refurbishments, and is currently engaged in one of its most prestigious developments to date for MSL Motor Group in Dublin.
Due for completion later this year, the new Mercedes-Benz North Dublin dealership in North City Business Park is the first purpose-built showroom of its kind in Ireland and reflects MSL’s ongoing investment in the future of mobility — delivering a world-class experience for personal, fleet and business customers alike, while contributing meaningfully to the local economy.
Strategically positioned just off Junction 5 on the M50, the multi-million euro facility will bring together MSL’s existing Mercedes-Benz North Dublin showroom on the Navan Road and its aftersales operations currently based at MSL Service Centre (North Dublin), creating a single, state-of-the-art destination for customers across North Dublin and the wider north-east region.
Spanning 2,513 sq. m., the new dealership will also include a modern showroom for new and approved used Mercedes-Benz vehicles, a 21-bay workshop, valeting facilities and dedicated preparation zones, premium customer amenities, including lounges, consultation areas and EV charging as well as over 200 parking spaces, demonstration areas and prominent M50-facing signage.
“We are proud and delighted to be associated with the new Mercedes-Benz North Dublin dealership,” McKelan Construction managing director Sean McKelvie enthuses.
“We have worked on car showrooms in previous years, but in the last five years we have been getting continuous work in this sector. It’s nice work to do and now accounts for up to 70% of our business.
“Our model suits the model that’s needed for what is very specialised work. We’re also currently developing a new state-of-the-art showroom and garage on a brownfield site for Dunlea’s of Kilcullen, who are a Kia dealership.
“We’ve completed major projects for Bright Motor Group in Airside and Navan road in recent years, and a Peugeot dealership expansion for Joe Mallon Motors in Naas in 2024. Other successfully completed showrooms include MSL South Dublin, which is a Mercedes dealership, Boland’s Mercedes-Benz in Wexford and MSL Cork.
“With our knowledge and expertise of over 30 years, coupled with our ability to problem-solve on site, we will guide your project to a successful completion that is cost-effective, timely and practical in every approach.”
Sean adds: “We’ve developed a vast array of commercial developments such as offices, apartment blocks with retail and, of course, car showrooms. Residential projects have always been a key part of our business. To this end, we’re currently carrying out extensions, refurbishments and rebuilds to high-end one-off homes in Delgany, Greystones and Dalkey.”
Based in Bree near Enniscorthy, McKelan Construction has earned an enviable reputation for quality, innovation and excellence within the construction industry. The Co. Wexford-based company offers a diverse portfolio of construction and building work in the residential, commercial, industrial, education and leisure sectors.
Outstanding workmanship, attention to detail, value-for-money and an unwavering commitment to Health & Safety and working closely with clients to deliver total satisfaction are the hallmarks of the business. McKelan Construction’s reputation for quality construction and proven ability to complete projects on time and within budget is borne out by the large volume of repeat business and referrals it receives from satisfied clients throughout the Leinster and Munster region. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and through a partnership approach with its clients, McKelan Construction always delivers a quality end-product.
“We are committed to helping our clients achieve competitive advantage through a flexible approach to design, construction and fitout,” Sean says.
McKelan Construction is a progressive and innovative company which employs 25-30 people directly and a further 100-150 on a subcontract basis. Among its tried and trusted subcontractors are Heatec Plumbing Contractors, J&D O’Brien Ltd, Paul Taaffe Electrical, FM Whelan, DJ Kelly Flooring, Chris Dowling Roofing & Cladding, Forde Fitted Kitchens and Doorfix, while the main contractor’s suppliers include TJ O’Mahony’s, Chadwicks, Brooks, SIG, Keegan’s and Kilsaran. By employing highly-skilled tradespeople, working closely with leading architects and engineers, and using the very best building products and methods, it is able to deliver the highest quality construction.
The company provides a complete building service, from conception to completion. Its expertise spans the construction industry, from renovations and extensions to new one-off dwellings, housing developments and industrial units. While most of its work is concentrated in Dublin, McKelan Construction will, in Sean’s words, “go wherever the work is”, pointing out that the company has worked all over Leinster and Munster.
McKelan Construction has extensive experience in residential and commercial building projects. Past projects in the residential sector include Portofino, Delgany, Co. Wicklow; The Landings, Foxrock, Dublin 18; Raphoe, Cornelscourt, Dublin 18; and luxury apartments at 106 Goatstown Road, Dundrum, Dublin 14.
Completed commercial / industrial projects include Boland’s Mercedes-Benz Wexford, Ardcavan, Co. Wexford; MSL Mercedes-Benz Cork, Eastgate Road, Little Island, Co. Cork; Bright Motors, Opel & Peugeot, Navan Road, Dublin 15; Joe Mallon Motors Peugeot & Opel, Sallins Road, Monread South, Naas, Co. Kildare; Bright Motor Showrooms, Holywell, Marshallstown, Swords, Co. Dublin.
On the leisure side, McKelan Construction’s portfolio includes ‘The Reserve’ at Killashee Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare, The BrookLodge Hotel and Macreddin Village, Aughrim, Co. Wicklow as well as Kingswood Country House Hotel on the Old Naas Road, Kingswood, Co. Dublin. In addition, the contractor has been involved in a number of school and hospital projects, including the recently-completed Clonburris Creche for Fonthill Daycare, Seven Mills, Clonburris, Co. Dublin.
The Enniscorthy company has come a long way since it was co-founded by Sean and the late John Whelan in 2003 (hence the name McKelan). It has come through the recession and Covid-19 pandemic with flying colours and continues to go from strength to strength under the guidance of Sean and fellow directors Tom O’Sullivan, Aidan Walsh and Ken Byrne.
“We secured a lot of work in the educational sector during the downturn and that sustained us until things started to pick up in the other sectors again. What also stood to us was the excellent working relationship we enjoyed and continue to enjoy with many architect offices,” Sean explains.
“We have a top-class team and a good order book for the next 12 months, so business is good.”
McKelan Construction would like to take this opportunity to thank its suppliers, clients and design teams for their continued support, and its staff and subcontractors for their dedication, hard work and expertise. Whatever your requirements, this exceptional builder will provide a cost-effective and high-quality building to suit you and your budget.
McKelan Construction Ltd
Macmine,
Bree,
Enniscorthy,
Co. Wexford,
Y21 AX52.
Telephone: 053 9247464
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.mckelanconstruction.com
This article was published in Building Ireland Magazine, May 2026, Vol 12 No 5
featured, McKelan Construction
