According to a new report major investment deals, and more than €17bn worth of loan sales backed by Irish commercial property, have made 2014 the busiest year ever in Ireland's commercial property market.

The study, published by DTZ Sherry FitzGerald, shows that growth is still centered in Dublin, with €8 out of every €10 invested going into the capital.

The year was characterised by an unusual amount of large deals - properties that had fallen into receivership were sold on by banks and the National Assets Management Agency (NAMA). The largest single transaction was the sale of Liffey Valley Shopping Centre in February for €250m.

Most major transactions have been for mixed use properties and developments, combining office spaces, with retail and accommodation opportunities.

DTZ director of investments Kevin Donohue commented to the Irish Independent: "2014 was an incredibly buoyant year for Irish property investments and early indications are very positive for 2015."