Docklands apartments project moves forward

Plans for Cork city’s biggest residential development to date depend on an “overdue” decision from An Bord Pleanála.

Earlier this week, Cork City Council granted planning permission for the construction of 1,325 homes in South Docks in Cork city centre, to be undertaken by O’Callaghan Properties.

Brian O’Callaghan, Managing Director of O’Callaghan Properties, welcomed the council’s decision as “tremendous news” but said the project still needs the go-ahead from An Bord Pleanála.

“This project on the former Gouldings site at Centre Park Road/Monahan Road will be a game changer for the city and its Docklands,” said Mr O’Callaghan.

He added: “As stated from the outset, the project depends on a positive planning decision from An Bord Pleanála regarding the former IFI site at Marino Point which will allow Gouldings re-locate from the Docklands.

“Planning permission granted to Gouldings by Cork County Council is being appealed to An Bord Pleanála. Their decision is overdue but hopefully will be given shortly.”

Meanwhile, Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy described the project as another step towards realising the full potential of Cork city.

He said: “A development of this scale is exactly what the city needs as it continues to grow sustainably. It will instill huge confidence for foreign direct investment and will be key in attracting and maintaining a highly skilled and diverse workforce.

“Demand for housing continues to outstrip supply in the city, and in order to continue growing our economy, Cork must be considered an attractive place to live and work with large-scale developments of this size which are of mixed tenure in nature.”

The development will incorporate 1,400 long stay bike parking spaces and will give 40% of its 15 acres over to public open space in a bit to complement the 'green' spine proposed for the nearby Kennedy Quay.