Grattan House set for revival?

Grattan House could be set for a new lease of life with number of expressions of interest in the city centre building amid it becoming a hot spot for drug taking and anti-social behaviour.

The Grattan Street property, along with the adjacent building at 47 Sheares Street, has been unoccupied for some time and both properties are in poor condition, structurally, mechanically and eclectically, City Hall has said.

This came to light after Independent Cllr Paudie Dineen called on Cork City Council to consider giving Grattan House to the Middle Parish Association for a nominal fee.

He said this would address the issue of possible dereliction at the property.

He added: “The residents have expressed that they would be interested in setting up a museum highlighting the marsh and the Coal Quay in by-gone days at this location and I would urge the council to consider this proposal.

“In recent times Grattan House has been attracting a lot of drug use and anti-social behaviour and it has become a sorry site over the years and is blighting the area.”

Cllr Dineen was of the opinion that putting Grattan House into good use would offset any further dereliction and enhance the area while the same time creating another tourist attraction within the city centre.

Replying to Cllr Dineen’s motion, Paul Moynihan, head of corporate affairs and international relations, said: “The intention now is to conduct a full options appraisal of the two properties (47 Sheares Street and Grattan House), taking into the account the interest we have received, the actual condition of the properties and the potential for redevelopment.”

A fully informed proposal is to be brought before councillors with a clear plan for the properties in due course.