For new dairy entrants, the main challenge is often the scarcity of suitably sized holdings that are modern and well-equipped.

This functional non-residential dairy farm in Cappanrush, Kilbeggan, Co Westmeath, ticks these boxes, offering an affordable route into the sector.

Listed with GVM auctioneers, the farm is split into two blocks – a 40ac parcel and farmyard, and a nearby 23.5ac outfarm.

Situated at the centre of the 40ac parcel is the yard, defined by the dairy. Just three years old, the GEA 10-unit swing-over herringbone parlour is ready for immediate use. Directly opposite this is a 62-cubicle shed with slatted tanks and feed passageway.

The standout feature of the yard is a modern GEA swing-over herringbone parlour.

Dairy infrastructure includes a Mueller 8,200 litre stainless-steel bulk tank.

Other features include a bull pen, calf-rearing shed, silage slab and dungstead. Equine facilities consist of a six-stable block with tack room and outdoor arena.

An internal laneway network provides access across the holding. Described as dry, the land is divided into neat paddocks with the potential for a long grazing season.

The interior of the 62-cubicle shed.

Equestrian facilities include a six-stable block.

Zero-grazing

A few hundred metres away lies the 23.5ac outfarm. Currently used for zero-grazing and meadowing, the land is productive and fertile, and benefits from dual road frontage. This makes it a useful extension to the 40ac holding, while also having strong standalone appeal. Expected to draw attention from both new dairy entrants and existing operators looking to expand, the farm will go for online auction via the LSL platform on 21 August.

Exterior of the parlour, showing the roller doors, some of which are automatic.

Aerial view showing the division of the land parcels.

Buyers will be able to bid on the entire holding or on the individual parcels, with the 40ac holding and yard guided in excess of €600,000, and the 23.5ac portion guided in excess of €350,000.