Re: *UPDATES*

😉 Fleming Construction have been refused planning by ABP for the development of 123 student apartments in 2 six-storey blocks which were to be situated on the hillside grounds of the former Our Lady’s Hospital off Shanakiel Hill. I have to say, I agree with this decision as the proposed development would not only be exceptionally out of character and totally detract from the magnificient Our Lady’s Hospital building, but in terms of market viability – it wouldn’t be the success it should be in light of recent student developments ar Victoria Cross (a far more suitable and convenient location to UCC) of which Rathmelton Investments plan for the Park & Ride site adjacent to the Kingsley Hotel is the largest.

😉 Also on the site of Our Lady’s Hospital, ABP have refused Lance Investments their application for the redevelopment of the Eastern Wing of the former hospital to incorporate 192-apartments and a nearby 232-bedroom hotel. The location for the hotel would have provided spectacular city views but it, and the apartment development are distinctly unsuited to this particular, precious location. Once again, I support the ruling by ABP.

– As anyone who knows me will tell you, I’m a strong advocate for large scale development in Cork, but the above projects should be more focused on city centre and docklands areas – or other locations within the city that don’t injure the few genuine architectural gems we have in Cork city. Cornmarket Street, the Coal Quay, lower Bachelors Quay or Copley Street would be far more suitable centre locations. Hopefully, both Fleming and Lance Investments will reconsider their options and focus their investment toward the city, in which, I wish them every success.