Calls for inspection of Maddens Buildings

A city councillor has called for a full property inspection of housing which is steeped in history in Blackpool.

Independent Ireland Cllr Ken O’Flynn has asked for Cork City Council to carry out a full property inspection of all the properties in Madden Buildings, with particular emphasis on conducting a thorough inspection of the roofs, soffits, eaves, and chimney stacks.

Cllr O’Flynn said Madden Buildings are of considerable age, and it is imperative to assess their current condition.

Built in 1886 on the site of an old cattle market, the National Built Heritage Service said the houses formed part of a movement to eradicate slum housing from the north side following the Artisans and Labourers Dwellings Improvements Act of 1875.

Cllr O’Flynn said despite several previous motions put forward by council members about maintenance and cleaning of soffits and other structural elements, these properties have not received the necessary attention.

He described some of them as being in “severe disrepair” adding that numerous properties have reportedly fallen into a state of disrepair, leading to issues such as draught leaks and internal damage.

He said the “unfortunate conditions” in some of these buildings have placed “vulnerable residents, particularly the elderly, in positions of serious fuel poverty and health risk due to inadequate insulation and maintenance.”

The General Election candidate said there were also health and safety concerns: “It is crucial for the well-being of the residents that comprehensive inspections are conducted to identify any potential hazards that may threaten their safety and quality of life.”