More projects in pipeline for city
There were two major announcements for the future of hospitality and shopping on Leeside this week.
Penneys has confirmed it plans to expand its Pana store while Tower Holdings Group can proceed with its mixed use development at the old Port of Cork site on Custom House Quay.
A spokesperson for Penneys told the Cork Independent: “We have embarked on the planning process to redevelop our St Patrick Street store.
“If our application is successful, we will increase the retail space by 17,000 sq ft to 54,000 sq ft, which will bring an enhanced shopping experience to our customers.
“We will plan a phased building schedule to allow the store to remain open during construction,” concluded the Penneys spokesperson.
Meanwhile Tower Holdings Group yesterday, Wednesday, welcomed the decision of An Bord Pleanála to uphold planning permission for its proposed project in Cork city. The Custom House Quay scheme will include a five-star hotel, new food and beverage outlets, protection and restoration of historic buildings, and introduces a new maritime culture and heritage offering.
The hotel will offer spa, swimming pool and gym facilities, incorporating and preserving the old Custom House.
It will also feature a sky bar and restaurant at the top of the building.
The historic bonded warehouses will be opened for public access for the first time ever and include an interactive visitors centre representing Cork’s rich maritime heritage as a port.
Kevin O’Sullivan, CEO of Tower Holdings Group said the Group are delighted with this decision from An Bord Pleanála to uphold the previous permission from Cork City Council.
Mr O’Sullivan explained: “We assembled one of the best design teams in the world, all of whom worked tirelessly to get this scheme right and I would like to sincerely thank them for all their efforts.”
He added: “The mixed use and cultural aspect of the scheme was extremely important to us and the city council alike, ensuring extensive public realm space and a maritime visitor attraction.”
Mr O’Sullivan continued: “Another key aspect in making the scheme a commercial success is the continuation of maritime activities on the river, ensuring the quays and jetties remain fully accessible and utilised by passenger cruise vessels, water-based transport/tourism and leisure craft to access the site and the city centre by river.
“I believe this project will add great value to the city and boost the docklands regeneration. I have always believed in a strong future for Cork and we are proud to be part of this future as the world recovers from the pandemic,” he concluded.