112 new social homes opened on Leeside
Today saw the official opening of 112 new social homes in Cork city with residents set to get the keys next month.
Located in the heart of Blackpool, the new homes were developed and will be managed by Clúid Housing and Clann Housing, Clúid’s age-friendly offering.
Officially opening the homes was An Tánaiste Micheál Martin who was joined this morning by Lord Mayor of Cork City, Cllr Kieran McCarthy, and representatives of Cork City Council, who had partnered with Clúid to deliver the new homes.
The Tánaiste said: “A home is so much more than just a roof over your head – it’s a place where you can make plans, support your family, and create thriving communities.”
The apartments were allocated to individuals and families on Cork City Council’s housing list and residents will get the keys to their new secure, affordable A-rated social homes in March.
The development is composed of 112 one, two, and three-bed apartments and a community space, with 36 homes specially designed to suit the needs of older residents.
Mr Martin continued: “This is one of the largest developments of this type in Cork city in recent years and I wish each of the 112 individuals and families moving in every happiness in their new homes and new community.”
Lord Mayor of Cork City, Cllr Kieran McCarthy, said: “Blackpool has always had a large place in the heart and pride of Corkonians. Its history of community life is rich from being rooted in manufacturing two hundred years ago to an area teaming with laneways and life in the twentieth century. In essence, Blackpool adds immensely to the rich tapestry of stories the wider city possesses.”
Chief Executive of Cork City Council, Ann Doherty, said: “With the population of Cork city due to grow by 50% to 2040, it is clear our city is changing. The positive benefits this development will bring to Blackpool and the wider city will be seen for generations to come. It is routed in sustainability, in both the community and environmental sense.”
Also speaking after the launch was Eibhlin O’Connor, Chief Commercial Officer, Clúid Housing, who said the site had been “tricky” to develop.
She said: “This dedication and faith has transformed a vacant plot into secure, permanent homes for over 150 people, with around ten households coming from emergency accommodation.”