Re: Ward Anderson: Capitol Cineplex to remain for the foreseeable future
🙁 Ward Anderson have announced that they intend to maintain the Capitol Cineplex operation for the foreseeable – as a result of increased sales activity, and other issues. For the time being, the 50-year old cineplex will undergo a respectable refurbishment process.
As previously reported, Ward Anderson had been investigating the redevelopment of the highly valuable site – in conjunction with private developers. A number of plans had been reviewed – among which incl. a substantial 6-storey over dual basement retail and leisure development w/ 25 large, open plan retail units, a possible ice-rink, bars and as many as 2 nightclubs. Another plan – which apparently was submitted for planning – included a large retail and office development over 5 and 1/2 floors – with a basement, ground, first and second floor retail centre and 3rd, 4th and 5th floor office area. A split level cafe opening out onto a rooftop garden was also proposed.
So, unfortunately, no definite news is expected on this site for some time now. Although I am still informed that development proposals will continue to be assessed. In the meantime, Ward Anderson are forging ahead with their 11-screen Omniplex at Mahon Point SC.
Here, below, is an image of Phase 1 of the Camden Court development by OSB on Carroll’s Quay. This image doesn’t do the entire development much justice (as anyone that viewed the image posted earlier of the entire development will tell you). Phase 2 – which will include 55 apartments, a new 110 seat arts theatre, Pa Johnsons Public House and dominating roof-top gardens and play-areas – was just recently greenlighted by ABP after appeal. Development of this 6-storey Phase 2 will begin in early November (subject to permission for an extended theatre from CCC).
The huge extension to the Kingsley Hotel with adjoining aparthotel and 116-student apartment development by Rathmelton Investments, designed by Murray O’Laoire, is making serious headway. O’Flynn Building & Civil Engineering of Banteer, Cork (not to be confused with O’Flynn Construction) are the main building contractors. It seems like a very large development for such a small firm.
