lexington
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😀 Proper order too! Howard Holdings have seen ABP grant permission for the 12m sculpture proposed outside their recently completed City Quarter development on Lapps Quay. Howard Holding’s were brought to appeal by An Taisce member Tomas O’Scannlain, a serial objector to numerous development projects around Cork. His objection was related to a personal preference to see a ‘water feature’ instead of the quill-like sculpture proposed. The Bord unequivocally decided that the sculpture proposed would ” enhance the visual amenities of the area”.
🙁 Only days after their grant, OFC have been brought to appeal by resident Margaret Walsh regarding their planned development for Maryborough Hill of 45 apartments and 29 mixed housing types. Hogan Associates are responsible for their design.
😮 On a lighter note, Mr. Keohane is breathing a little easier these days after an appeal, against the recent grant provided to his Grangefield Developments for 226 residencies (houses and apartments) + optional serviced sites at Ballincurra near Midelton, was withdrawn.😮 Carrigaline-based Ruden Homes have been granted planning by Cork County Council (CorkCoCo) for a massive development of 554 new residential units, a creche and a retail unit at Lehenagh More in Togher – not far removed from Cork Airport. The development will consist of 53 detached homes, 170 semi-detached, 300 terraced houses and 31 apartments.
😎 Meanwhile, Tom Scriven’s plans to redevelop The Brog Maker public house along the Frankfield Road, just of the Kinsale Road Roundabout, have been refused. The plan included the development of a new 2-storey licensed premises with adjoining 3-storey building containing an off-licence, bookmakers, retail shop, restaurant, 5 office units, 4 apartments and a basement car-park.
😎 Coleman Brothers Developments have had an extension to their ‘Woodfield’ development along the Station Road, Blarney refused also. The extension was to include 21 apartments over two 3-storey blocks. I’m told they will most likely go to appeal. But dare I say it, I agree with the decision in this case.
😎 I see the IFI plant at Marino Point has been sold by HOK at around 23m euros.
:confused: And speaking of sales – what about the sale of the Jeannie Johnston to the DDDA for 2.7m euros!!! Handy little profit there, considering the thing cost 15m to construct. :rolleyes:
Should have news on Jurys decision this evening. The decision is due before office closing hours.@Pug wrote:
no more vibes / guesstimates / news on who bought the tesco site in midleton?
You’ll have to excuse me – but I haven’t been keeping an eye on the whole Tesco Midelton unfoldings recently as I’ve been sidelined by city ‘goings-on’. It would seem the town centre Tesco Midelton site was jointly purchased by Gerard Beausang (that of Beausang Construction based in Midelton) and the owners of Cash & Carry Kitchens Ltd (who also have other interests in the area) for a figured est’d at around 5m euros. Mr. Beausang has been involved in a number of developments in and around Midelton/Cloyne area – such as those at Spital Lane, Cloyne and Castleredmond, Midelton. He is also an avid GAA supporter – in fact, I believe he is sponsor of Cloyne GAA (!).
Apologises for the late reply – but I wasn’t really following the details on this one and I do owe that info to an ‘informant’. So as they say, “a big up” to him for providing those details! 😉 Thanks!
@Pug wrote:
whats the word Lex my man? did OCP get past ABP or is it all still on the QT? 😎
I’m afraid the decision has been deferred to May 18th 2005 – tomorrow. The report is still with the Bord. Although the decision date has been deferred until tomorrow evening, that still doesn’t guarantee a decision then. Sorry, you’re going to have to keep biting those nails a little longer! 😮
– obviously I can’t pre-empt what exactly the Bord will decide, but based on available information and with my own understandings of the situation, I’m going to go out on the limb and say I believe the Jurys scheme will be granted. Under what conditions I don’t know – but let’s just hope I’m not wrong! 😮 😉
Any other bets? 😀
The plan for pedestrian bridges here was more a CCC wish than a development reality. Port of Cork were utterly oppose to the idea. However, in this CG Image of Wilson Architecture’s conceptual plans for the redevelopment of Horgan’s Quay (no longer in play) – a’moveable’ pedestrian bridge is clearly evident connecting the new plaza at Horgan’s Quay to Custom House Quay/Anderson’s Quay. If OCP plans do come to fruition, they will likely seek to maximise the development potential of this land section – perhaps the most valuable section in terms of construction ability, unfortunately, it is also the most prominent.
Beyond that, the Water Street, further down along Horgan’s Quay will likely be the next provision of bridge in this section of the city. PoC are also oppose to this – understandably in this instance I suppose – so the plans for the bridge will involve its ability to tilt and/or part-centre – allowing a regular flow of medium sized vessels up the channel. However, as port activities move further east, the traffic will be mostly limited to recreational, tourist and the odd naval vessel.
@Radioactiveman wrote:Maiden looking out over the sea- my arse!! What about the head of that serpent St. Finbarr chased down there? Now that would be cool!
RM – where’s your sense of romance??? 😉
:confused:
Will have details on Riga Ltd (OCP) appeal for the Lancaster Quay/Jurys Hotel redevelopment later today.
@jungle wrote:I’m a bit confused about what would be removed from the Custom House Quay site. Is it just the portion outlined in red in my copy of the picture, or is it more than this?
Yes jungle, the area you have highlighted there is the existing Cork Bonded Warehouses extension.
@sw101 wrote:
the idea of removing the bonded warehouses is appalling, and it is one of the few things i would ever object to regards development in cork city.
The Cork Bonded Warehouses do not form part of the Port of Corking warehousing facilities (see image outline the 2 in previous post). They are not PS and are of no architectural or historic value.
From my own point of view, I personally have a major soft spot for this site. I think its one of the prettiest settings in the city (less the unsightly CBW extension). The patterns on the cobbled quaysides are exceptionally attractive. I will reserve judgement on any proposal until I see it. A little imagination could actually add to the site – such as ‘wave-like’ elevations along the quayside to permit visual contact from the opposing quays of the warehousing. Let’s just wait and see if anything materialises from this. Remember, the 15-storey tower element is not confirmed – and will likely be substantially revised to a lower-rise element.
RM – previous proposals had been submitted to the PoC about maintaining the warehousing and quaysides for amenity use – with a cantilevered boardwalk wrapping around the site to allow for leisure and docking facilities to be retained. An extension was to be added to the warehousing on the east – post CBW demolition – this would cater for a landmark 2-storey building – from which a 15m sculpture would rise of a ‘maiden’ looking out over the Lee (apparently waiting for her ‘lover’ to return from the sea!!!). The warehousing would have been refurbished and converted to entertainment usage. Quayside stalls would open out onto the boardwalk – allowing a mix of retail and cafes etc. And other details… The problem is, PoC pretty much priced anyone with such pleasant ideas out of it. Brendan Keating (CEO) has remarked that (State backed or not), PoC is still a company and needs to finance its activities – therefore it was obligated to seek the highest price. Unfortunately the highest price makes the aforementioned activities highly restricted in their viability (when you also include development, refurbishment, JW Green lease buyout, insurance, marketing and other costs). The 10m euro price, it would seem, was not achieved by the PoC – but it had been a guide it had been throwing about. So its not as though developers hadn’t been trying. OCP are simply trying to maximise their value. But note that 3 development plans are being assessed, of which the aforementioned is only 1. I’m not clear on the other options – they may be more in line with what you would wish for the site. But let’s just wait and see how this one goes before we all huff and puff.
( A QUICK NOTE: I’ve retained a degree of hesistancy about posting this information for a number of reasons – among them, the preliminary nature of the dealings, some conflicting reports and a number of other side issues. Though a number of sources close to the project have confirmed the details, as will follow, I would ask those of you reading this particular post to keep in mind that the plans are subject to preplanning discussions. Most information posted (the good majority) has come from reliable individuals attached to the project.)
It is believed that O’Callaghan Properties have been earmarked as the quiet deal winners in attaining the highly desirable Custom House Quay premises – encompassing Anderson’s Quay (to the north) – in a process that was subject to lengthy negotiations with landowners, the Port of Cork and leaseholders JW Green. Among the plans being devised for the site, with consulting engineers (whom I will name in a later post) already working on early studies, is a mixed-use development which will peak on the eastern head of the site (facing out over the Lee – the very tip of Cork island) with a landmark tower (currently 15-storeys in height). The plan will see the development wrap around the existing period warehousing facilities on both quays – however, it is likely the Cork Bonded Warehouses ageing extension – not part of the historic PoC warehousing – will be demolished to allow for development space.
JW Green warehousing, which held a lengthy lease on all of the site’s warehousing from the PoC, apparently agreed to sell the lease, following 3-way discussions between OCP, PoC and JW Green themselves who will now be relocating their activities to new premises on Little Island. PoC have remained vehement in the retention of the PoC warehousing – its incorporation into the larger scheme is a touchy point of negotiation among preplanning discussions (on-going). Though it is not confirmed, it is believed the PoC will remain in their current facilities at Custom House. OCP had been persuant of the land for quite some time and represents a trophy catch, valued at just under 7m euros (est’d) – although earlier quotes from PoC (regarding other negotiations on other deals, had quoted 10m euros). The land had also been the subject of a legal dispute between the PoC and Oakeridge Ltd over property rights claims – this would now seem to have been resolved (?). A boardwalk is expected to continue on from the wonderful facility provided by Howard Holdings at City Quarter on Lapps Quay. Catering for ongoing docking activities at the quays is currently unknown. The project has yet to reach the hands of a designated architect, for what one source jokingly described as being for ‘tarting up!’ (although names have been short-listed). It seems that OCP have promised CCC that any development on this prized, but difficult plot of land, will be of the utmost quality and sensitivity with an outstanding architectural design worthy of its location. Plans remain yet to be formalised – may I remind you of that. An announcement however, is expected within the coming weeks – when, I’m not so sure, but I’ll do my best to find out. Materialisation of the plan is not expected until at least late-2007 at the very earliest (likely longer considering design stage, planning, appeal and actual construction).
The plan, if realised, will provide a landmark entrance into the city from the east along Horgan’s Quay. The height may yet be reduced given the incredible sensitivity of the location.
That’s what is known so far, I have some other details, but I’ll have to hold back on those for a while until we see what exactly is put down on formal papers. Hang on to your hats – I’ll update and correct any information herein subject to available information. I’ll also try and have some images up of the site when I can.
🙂 Hopefully Friday the 13th won’t represent bad luck (and thankfully I don’t believe any of that) for O’Flynn Construction who lodged their Significant Further Information request for Eglinton Street with CCC on that date. Some alterations of to the scheme have been made. Submissions are open for 10 more days in light of the nature of the information received – with a planning decision date now scheduled for the 7th July 2005. Construction on the project is not likely now until 2006 (as previously mentioned in an earlier post).
The changes included will seek to alter the development’s perimeter buildings, which generally comprised of between 6 to 8 storeys in height, will now be 5 storeys in shoulder height, w/ a set back of 2-storeys. A feature 6-storey, with set back 2 storey, pod will be located at the end of Albert Street. The landmark 17-storey tower will remain unchanged other than revisions to the upper floors and a height reduction to the parapets along the street frontages of the perimeter buildings. Due to the changes, some residential floor spaces have be rearranged – allowing for the formation of new penthouses recessed above and behind the parapet lines of perimeter buildings. Furthermore, this has allowed for an increase in apartment numbers from 217 (in original application) to 226 in this revised submission. The units will be laid out as follows: 37 1-bedroom units; 160 2-bedroom units, 29 3-bedroom units. An additional retail units of over 2500sq ft will also be provided within the northern perimeter buildings.
😮 (<- I love that guy!) As we speak, OCP are on tenderhooks – as the Jurys appeal report is with the board (ABP) awaiting a decision for tomorrow. It's not yet known whether an extension will be allocated or whether the decision will be made there and then – so say individuals with ABP. I'll keep you posted. 🙁
@Radioactiveman wrote:Lex, are you going to put a link to the full version of Cork: Has it’s time come? on this thread?
Whats going on with the Rhino rooms on the Coal Quay and the building on the Grand Parade side of it?1. Hopefully at some stage in the future I’ll post a link to the full text, but for the time being the text will be extracted concerning various elements (i.) Construction Firms (ii.) Developers (iii.) Architects (iv.) Tourism Strategies (v.) Docklands – Critical Mass of Business and Development Sustainability. Allah bidding they’ll be posted over the course of the next few weeks.
As regards 93, Grand Parade, William Forde (of the Owenahincha Hotel in Roscarbery) is partially demolishing the building (a former discount store if I’m correct) and reconstructing it for ground-floor retail use and office use on the upper floors.
😉 May (!!!) make an announcement on an exciting docklands proposal tonight (around 8:30pm-ish) depending (so don’t count on it!) But if you’ve been following the posts, you’ll know what I’m talking about. It’s a premature announcement – still subject to preplanning talks – but I’ll let you know what’s been discussed/proposed so far.Extract from Cork: Has It’s Time Come?
This 1st section concerns moves made by Construction companies in Cork. Future sections will include one of developer moves, and another, on architects.
“…in assessing the current development trends with Cork city, its suburbs, greater area and associated commuter towns, we may determine a relative understanding as to the nature of development engaging the Cork market at present. However, a more telling sign may be sought in assessing the business moves being made among proverbial ‘key-players’ in the development and construction industries…construction company movements represent calculated projections regarding the manner in which they can strategically maximise welfare…
…consider the key/big general contractor company players in the Cork region (historically): PJ Hegarty, Bowen, Fleming, Ascon, Sisk – with lesser but important inputs from the likes of Pierse, Murnane & O’Shea and in more specific development related operations. O’Flynn Construction, O’Brien & O’Flynn etc. What have we witnessed recently? We have seen companies like Bowen & Hegarty position themselves into positions capable of facilitating the projected increase in demand they expect from large contracting projects within the Cork region. Bowen in particular have increased their Cork-based capabilities to facilitate this such demand. However, what has been more interesting, has been the highly aggressive competition we’ve witnessed in recent times of firms (historically present but not traditionally ‘big-players’ in the Cork market) like John Paul Construction. JPC have and continue to make major moves into the Cork market, capturing prime building contracts even from established developer/contractor relationships (OCP and Bowen, Howard Holdings and Hegarty etc). JPC have embarked on constructing a new, large purpose built administritive premises on Little Island (currently in appeal) such is there commitment and expectations of the Cork market over the coming years. A spokesperson for JPC has stated, “We see Cork as a prime market for us over the prospective future. Although we have traditionally engaged in activities within the region, we are now actively pursuing a well-recognised and established presence in the city and county, and to facilitate this, we’ve made substantial investments in the market. We are also hoping to play a major part in the redevelopment of the city’s docklands over the years…” So far, JPC’s aggressive approach seems to paying off with major projects at Grand Parade, Albert Quay, Old Blackrock Road, Churchfield (to name a few) all in full swing. This has given the traditional players a bit of a shake-up. They now realise the need to competitively adapt to this new environment, and so far, they seem to be doing so with relative success. Bowen have secured long-term contracts with OCP for the Lancaster Quay/Jurys redevelopment (over 3 to 4 years of work) and Academy Street. Hegarty’s have development plans of their own, but have secured other long-term contracts with the Shipton Group for Blackpool and Carrigaline. Sisk (who have been sliding in market share) are attempting a comeback with major contracts for Union Quay, possibly UCC and their own hotel development at Airport Road. Pierse have embarked on an ambitious joint venture with developers Lyonshall, worth 180m euros, for the former Ursuline Convent in Blackrock – and also with contracts for UCC; Ascon/Rohcon have been very successful with Fota Retail Park, Blackpool, Cork County Hall, Kinsale Road Roundabout Fly-over and Cork Airport contracts.
…another market entrant, traditionally associated with operations in the midlands and east/Dublin region, has been Michael McNamara & Co. Construction. The company has had some operations in Cork, but has now moved in for the kill. Their expectations of the Cork development market reflect those of JPC. McNamara’s have been successful in securing the contract for Phase 2 of Omnistone’s Cork Airport Business Park (the 1st Phase was constructed by Bowen). McNamara’s are also actively seeking and competing for prominent city centre developments with which to establish themselves as a new force to be reckoned with…
…but who else is on the horizon? Strabag AG (Austrian Construction firm) say some!…
…but beyond established national players penetrating the Cork market, another noteworthy response to the flourishing Cork market has been the growth in domestic firms. Cumnor Construction have grown rapidly from a small house-building firm to become a company capable of handling large-scale landmark contracts (such as Hanranka Ltd’s Knapps Square development). Jim Davis & Co. have moved quietly into city centre development with a new 20-unit, 5-storey apartment scheme under construction along Leitrim Street (designed by RORSA); Murnane & O’Shea (also active in development) have taken on sizeable schemes at Blackpool, Pine Street, Ballincollig and Bachelor’s Quay; John F. Supple are working a large schemes at Carrolls Quay, Shandon Street, Upper John Street and Killarney, among others…
…also of note has been the gradually southward migration of large construction and development companies, usually only ever associated with midland and Dublin projects, particularly P. Elliot & Co. The company recently established a southern office in Nenagh, Co. Tipperary – but has its sights on the Cork market. Informants say the company is currently assessing an option of a grand-entrance into the Cork city development market with plans for a docklands scheme valued at around 30m euros. Although the scheme is very preliminary (with preplanning talks having yet to commence), its indicative of the way in which these companies are thinking – and the confidence with which they have invested in Cork’s future…”
– Lexington © 2005 😀
NOTE: since the time of writing I have been told P. Elliot and Company have not formalised any prospective plans regarding a docklands development, however, that the city remains on the agenda long-term w/ options on development opportunities. The text shall remain unchanged as it is from a greater bulk and was correct at time of writing based on the available information presented.🙂 John Paul Construction have erected a tower crane over the Howard Holdings’ WebWorks development on Albert Quay (to the rear of Albert House). The development will provide 40,000sq ft + of quality IT/Business incubator office facilities over 4-floors (w/ 5th floor apex) and link up with Albert House, which will include a ground-floor restaurant. Albert House will revert to CCC ownership after 2 years, while remainder of the site has been let to Howard Holdings for 700 years with an initial 2.25m euro downpayment and p.a. payment of 10euros every year thereafter. The project is a joint initiative between Howard Holdings, CCC and Enterprise Ireland. Design is by Scott Tallon Walker – an image will be up in the near future.
🙂 After many a long protracted delay, Tom McCarthy’s George’s Mill along Father Matthew Quay has finally seen building contractors O’Flynn of Banteer, erect scaffolding around the antiquated and derelict former Mill site – to the rear of the prime Bank of Ireland office facility on South Mall. Mr. McCarthy’s Tumblegate Ltd enlisted architects Murray O’Laoire to design the new project which will entail residential, commercial and linked restaurant facilities (the restaurant will link up with Mr. McCarthy’s Jacob’s on the Mall premises along South Mall – a highly successful culinary enterprise which utilises the former Cork city Turkish Baths facility). The news will be music to the ears of many who have long complained of the eye-sore nature of the Mill.
😮 Despite the announcement made by Slattery’s regarding the commencement of a Cork – New York JFK airlink – commencing in October 2005. I can tell you that talks are on-going between 3, possibly 4, US-based carriers about commencing scheduled links between Cork and the USA. The Cork Airport Authority, of whom Loretta Burke Glucksman is helping spearhead, have been conducting talks with Continental Airlines (on a possible Cork – New York Newark route), US Airways (unknown, Philadelphia???) and American Airlines, who will commence Shannon – Boston and Dublin – Chicago O’Hare, services this summer.
Also, news may soon be afoot regarding a development that no doubt City Manager Joe Gavin will be dancing in the aisles about, at the location in and around the below… 😉
Kyrl’s Quay Architectural Competition
I’ve been viewing over some of the entries for the CCC/RIAI Kyrl’s Quay Architecture Competition. The competition sought proposals from innovative minds in the field of architecture to redevelop a portion of the Kyrls Quay frontage adjoining the Cornmarket Street junction. CCC possess some of the land in the designated area, with some in private ownership (although talks I’m told a privately on-going). A landmark, innovative and complimentary proposal was sought to provide this quayside with an indentifiable and noteworthy contribution to the city’s skyline. I’m told approx. 80 entries were submitted – I myself have only seen about 12 and glanced over a few more. Generally the standard is high, there are some interesting takes and some, quite plainly, dull – but it will be interesting to see which proposal is appointed come Wednesday 18th. The remaining entries will be on public display, I think in the Vision Centre on North Main Street after the decision is announced. It may be worth submitting a few to the Unbuilt Ireland section of this website thereafter. I’ll bring you more details when I hear them.
@who_me wrote:Looking forward to any more pictures of the Clontarf St or Crosses Green developments (for differing reasons!). Have any pictures been posted of the Webworks development? Also, I noticed there’s a crane up by County (City???) Hall, has work started there already?
Hope to have drawings of the Clontarf Street building up soon, pending on a number of issues I have yet to wholly resolve, but leave it with me. I will have a Crosses Green image up within the next week or so. As for the WebWorks development, I’ll try and get an image up soon (no promises). The design is by Scott Tallon Walker. It’s nothing to rave about but its inoffensive. The 2 tower cranes on the City Hall site are for the 32m euro, 90,000sq ft + extension of the City Hall itself, being developed and constructed by Cleary Doyle and designed by ABK. There are tower crane sections on the Albert Quay WebWorks site with John Paul Construction as contractors and Howard Holdings as developers, it is expected the crane will be erected tomorrow actually!
@phatman wrote:
Couldn’t agree with you more who_me, the potential for this is great, and would really serve as a focal point for the docklands if developed correctly, not to mind being a much needed tourist attraction. I gotta agree with you on preserving the existing buildings too, would really make a great cage/bar/retaurant complex, further to my previous post haha.
Any plans for this site, anyone?First of all, don’t become too sceptical too soon regarding any plans that ‘may’ be in line for CHQ w/o seeing the plans. Second, the warehousing is not an issue. Port of Cork are rigid in their retention. Third, regarding any plans for CHQ in the prospective future, the problem with mere cafe/leisure usage etc., is in part a problem consequent of the PoC’s own doing. Their guide price on the site is substantial given the nature of the premises, and limits the options on development w.r.t. the price. As Brendan Keating (PoC CEO) once said long ago, he was not going to be pressurised by CCC or Joe Gavin to do anything, regardless of what Urban Initiatives had wooed CCC with. Any development will have to get bang-for-its-buck and be economically viable. Let’s just relax and see what occurs. Too much speculation is like wind to a wildfire. Relax.
Clarke’s Bridge Office Development
🙂 Another Coughlan de Keyser designed project should meet planners at Navigation House in the close future. A circa.35,000sq ft, 6-storey office development at Clarke’s Bridge (Crosses Green) just off Washington Street and within striking distance of the newly refurbished Cork Court House. The new building, by developer Adrian Power, will be most attractive to firms (especially legal-based firms) seeking high-quality premises right at the epi-centre of Cork’s Legal District. The site (approx. 6,000sq ft), a former vehicular (Auto Exhausts) work-shop fronting the water’s edge next to Clarke’s Bridge, and facing opposite O’Flynn Construction’s Dean’s Hall student and office facility, is being marketed by DNG Harris. Planning pending, an early 2007 completion date is envisioned. The working design (in 6-storey configuration which may be reduced to 5 subject to planning talks) is seen below (beneath site image). It seeks to maximise the waterfront perspective with extensive utilisation of window space on the southern elevation and a stepped-back upper floor. The gradient of the site and image compression make the project seem a little higher than is actual – plus a comfortable space off the northern elevation reduces any negative impacts on neighbouring buildings to this side. The redevelopment comes in a prime city centre location in much need of rejuvenation.<img src="http://img201.echo.cx/img201/2440/cbapd8ff.th.jpg" border="0" alt="Free Image Hosting at http://www.ImageShack.us” />
🙂 It seems Lush (yes, the original ‘bath bomb’ maker!) is seeking to open a store in Cork. The rumours of the store’s opening have long been established but now the wheel’s are in motion, with recruitment in tow.@who_me wrote:
Re: the Kenny Group’s design on Patrick’s Quay, I think it’s a stunning design – easily my favourite of all the recent and upcoming developments in Cork. Even having said that though, if I had to choose between that building, and retaining the old stone facades, I’d opt for the stone facades every time – the RC building could be built elsewhere. As mickeydocs suggested, those old buildings still look great now, and will do in another 50 years, with a basic level of maintenance, while most new developments like the RC building are, for want of a better term, ‘disposable architecture’. It will likely need a complete makeover in 30-40 years (if you don’t believe me, how many new buildings from the mid 60’s in Ireland look good now?) Whereas the retained facades are far more timeless.
More developments like the new RC building please (but let’s not knock our few remaining ‘gems’ to make way for them!) IMO, of course. 😀
I always believe in going for the timeless quality. I like the idea of a building that people will look at in 50 years, when all our modern ideas of architecture have gone out the window, and have them saying “That’s a classic!” Paul Kenny’s building has numerous qualities to it, and though I strongly support retaining proverbial ‘gems’, many Protected Structures in Cork, are confusingly given this status. I like the facades on St. Patrick’s Quay, but in order to redeveloped the site and still retain the facades, what constitutes a suitable project??? A mock-style replica? Or a modern take? Quite often these style replicas are disastrous verticals and boring lines which mimic nothing near the intricate detail and blunt building methods that add to the timeless quality of the original building. In the end, they often insult the original facade or building rather than compliment it. The Kenny proposal is assertively modern, but recognises the historical element, which remains distinctive. In 40 or 50 years, if the Kenny development is demolished to make way for some other project, the facades by way of this distinction will remain unique elements rich for preservation.
@who_me wrote:
Re: the Custom House quay, I was really hoping this might be used as a bar/bistro/restaurant complex making full use of the quay areas for outdoor seating. As the docks are (hopefully!) rejuvenated, it would make a great social hub, particularly with the pedestrian bridges (as per the dockland masterplan) to the North and South quays. It also could spur a lot of foot traffic through the rejuvenated city “East End”, and join up nicely with the Lavitt’s Quay boardwalk area.
Personally, I think it would be a tremendous pity to knock the existing buildings, when so close by (South Docks area) there’s an area ideally suited for truly high rise development: existing tall buildings of little aesthetic appeal, few residents to object, riverside & city centre location.
I never said Custom House Quay (CHQ) – just to put that on the record, uhmm. But lets just say we were talking about that site – I have a very noted interest and understanding of that location for numerous reasons I won’t go into. The site has a fascinating history and its prominence and uniqueness demand only the very finest complements. However, you can take it from me, the warehousing on the site will not be demolished (it would be most unlikely for this to occur). Any plans that would be conceived, would generally be built around the warehousing on the actual quaysides and demolish the Cork Bonded Warehouse facility to the east – where here, development would be acceptable. The problem with construction here is the retention of the wonderful cobbled quaysides. Plans have in the past, been devised for this site, which sought to refurbish and delicately adjust the existing warehouses for leisure usage with boardwalked quaysides. However those plans were forced to move on consequent of a number of factors which will remain undisclosed. The site is a very difficult engineering feat by any standards. Were a high-rise in the conception – you’d be talking pile foundations of approx. 50 feet etc etc. Any design would have to be of impeccable landmark standards. Cough.
@who_me wrote:
Has any interest been announced in purchasing the Beamish & Crawford brewery for redevelopment? Probably No. 1 on my wishlist would see the Counting House retained (obviously) but the rest of the property sympathetically redeveloped, with a ‘green’ public area winding from the South Gate bridge along the riverside onto Hanover St.
It’s quite a lot of fun watching tourists struggling to frame a picture of St. Finbarr’s Cathedral while cutting out the brewery. It could be a very attractive quarter of the city, with the Counting House, the Elizabethan fort and St. Finbarr’s in close proximity. Of course, if the proposed new hotel across the river (Cross’s Green?) is as bad as it sounds, perhaps not. Is there any news of that development lexington?
I am not aware of any plans regarding Beamish & Crawford other than aspirations and mere informal proposals.
As for the Charles McCarthy proposal of a 7-storey hotel designed by Derek Tynan & Associates for Crosses Green – can I simply say, it is the ugliest proposal bestowed on Cork in many many years. Quite frankly, its a disgrace. The cladding colouration is most unusual and interesting (black limestone), but the design is bland, boring and detracts substantially from the inspiring (no pun intended) presence of St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral. It represents nothing more than a large black wall. I’ll have a further update and image soon.
For those of you who can’t wait to get a glimpse of the DAT Partnership’s plans for Clontarf Street…here it is! Its perspective is taken from one of the elevational drawings by CdK (Tom & Daniel) and views the project in an east-to-west persepctive. You may remember in an earlier post that I noted it would be a landmark building in the proper sense of the word, and I think you’ll agree, it is. It represents another really excellent design for Cork following on from Paul Kenny’s RC development and OFC’s Eglinton Street development (both by Wilson Architecture – FOM and POM) and shows what a little imagination and money can do. These type of developments are the ones Cork needs more of and to keep working toward. I suppose that’s why the docklands offer so much potential, it provides a unique opportunity to make Cork an architectural goldmine – and I would encourage any architect and developer reading this to let your imagination flourish, you may never get a better time. CdK are also working on 2 other projects near Clontarf Street (apparently to be named ‘Centre Point’ which I must admit I did not know it had been formalised) at Deloitte and No.5/No.6 Lapps Quay – just to the left (south) of the image thumbnail posted (not seen) and with the refurbished bus-station to the right (north).
:rolleyes: Just regarding the Water Street appeal, with one week left to go before the deadline, I have been talking to someone on the Coranree Dock Road in Limerick, and they have pretty much decided what they are going to do – however, I have promised to keep it quiet as Werdna are anxious to keep ‘the planners guessing’ as it were until the very last moment. I would hope however to make you aware of their plans before it is formally announced. 😎
🙂 Also, you may recall some time ago, comments I made regarding a new city healthcare facility (not yet announced) – well, just so you know, plans are progressing nicely, talks continue in a positive manner. The design is by a leading practice and nearing completion. Estimated project values are between the 40m to 50m euro region (the upward figure associated with a problematic engineering issue), down from an earlier plan at an alternate location for a 100m euro facility. An application is a few months off yet, but it is looking very promising. I’ll keep you informed closer to the application date.
😮 Though I am going to have to keep my mouth dun suas on this for a while, I’ll leave it at this – the highrise docklands project I was hinting at previously, has indeed reached pre-planning discussion stages. The final design will be built up around those talks. I believe Mr. Barker made a hint at the location in today’s IE – regarding the ‘period warehousing’ and the ‘quiet’ exchange of hands. If you’ve followed the clues over the course of my recent posts, you’ve probably got the location figured out by now. But then again, perhaps we just have wires crossed on the exact property. Hmmm.
@Leesider wrote:I have just been reading the Dublin street lighting thread and Washington St. popped into my head. This area has potential as a kind of Temple Bar area (Washinton Village), but does anyone think the area needs a makeover as regards street lighting (and possibly a few other things) and are there any plans?
Recently I was walking from McCurtain St to Washington St via Patrick St on a Sat night, the atmosphere seemed to get alot more menacing when you reached Washington St, the street seems very drab and dark………maybe that’s just all the muckers outside Reardans!! 😀
I agree, Washington Street is in line for a revamp – it’s a great street. John Mannix’s project, if it passes appeal (praise Allah!), should liven up the street somewhat. Funny though how, as the main centre of Cork nightlife and Cork’s legal district, that most of the late-night drunken offenders end up on trial at the same location as their offence! 😉
🙂 Slattery Travel’s Slattery USA division will be commencing charter flights on a 2x weekly basis between Cork and New York JFK using Ryan International (a Chicago-based, predominantly charter, airline). The route will be served by a Boeing 757 (tight!), service will begin on Thursday 27th of October. The service is hoped to kick start further moves by airport and airline industries to push for a scheduled service in the long-term. Despite the announcement, a spokesman for Aer Arann says the move does not disrupt hsis airline’s ongoing investigations in commencing a scheduled service between the 2 cities. However, investment remains the largest obstacle to their plans.
For a look at the ‘interesting’ airline, take a look at its website (noting that its been ‘Under Construction’ for 2 years now!) -> http://www.flyryan.com/home/
🙂 Howard Holdings (Fuchsia Investments) have submitted revised plans for its hotel plan in Kinsale. The site is currently being used as a temporary car-park facility between Emmet and Long Quays. The new plans will provide for a 102-bedroom hotel, boardwalk, 7 apartment suites, retail units, boardwalk stalls and a 273 space basement car-park over 2 levels, accessible to the public.
RM – the Deloitte proposal was to be designed by Tom Couglan (Coughlan de Keyser Architects of No.5/No.6 Lapps Quay fame). The proposal entailled a vertical extension with cantivelered extension over the pavement and a predominantly glass quayside frontage (and PS encasing) rising up to a level pretty much on par with No.5 Lapps Quay. However, I have not yet seen the actual complete design, so I can’t specify anymore than that. Sorry! 😮
mickeydocs – the only thing I would say about PS issues is that, in some cases, the restrictions regarding incorporation are so prohibitive that they restrict what architects can and cannot do with a new development. I think Wilson made the best of an awkward situation with Paul Kenny’s RC development so kudos is due there, but RORSA really were caught with the Howard Holdings/Comfort Inn development on Lavitts Quay. The integration of No.16 is necessary by policy, but logistically and aesthetically inconvenient. I’m hoping the revised scheme through Significant Further Information, will address the awful design of the original application, and make the No.16 issue work a little better. I don’t deny the difficulty RORSA have in designing a decent structure at this site (which Mr. Arthur totally messed about with too), but the design was still inadequate. The interior of No.16 is most interesting, but the building is almost impossible to incorporate and make the quayside look good if you consider the planning impositions. If Mr. Arthur’s premises at No.15 were out of the picture, the design could be a lot more interesting. For example, if the building commanded a quay frontage, rather than its current retracted position, and arch over No.16 whilst drawing it in closer to the new development, with perhaps some attractive backlighting to illuminate the PS at night from its cave like position??? Some radical northern facade alterations would need to be made – but they need to be made anyway given its current design.
Interestingly enough, Howard Holdings were granted permission to demolish the Tedcastles premises on Lapps Quay (also a PS) when they applied for City Quarter’s planning. It was pointlessly given that status – and despite planning policy, CCC seem ready to bend the rules a little when it suits them! 😀
Pug – one developer managed to catch a quick discussion with Libeskind after his presentation in Cork Opera House (I’m told), don’t know the details of what was said, but if one were to speculate, one’s head might dizzy. I don’t see Cork homing a Libeskind design anytime in the near future – well, other than 18 Turns. 😉
rodger – the mood is favourable indeed regarding Eglinton Street, Wilson Architecture will be lodging the required ‘Clarification/Further Info’ imminently. The word is good, but I like to see final reports just to be sure. Then there’s always the threat of ABP, but I think relative compromise has been attained on most sides. There’ll always be those difficult individuals though. Construction, I was told, was originally slated for late-Summer/Autumn (subject to appeal), however, it may be pushed back to early 2006 subsequent of an arrangement. Funnily enough, regarding its height – at 70m, it may be the tallest building in Ireland (assuming Paul Keogh’s design doesn’t commence beforehand), but its still shorter than the wingspan of the new Airbus A380 or even the fuselage of the same aircraft (at 73m). However, if you include the spire, Eglinton Street may just top it. 😮 Apparently spires are included in a building’s height, not aerials – don’t know when that rule was decided, perhaps since the Petronas Towers/Sears Tower debate. Frankly, I think spires are cheating. :p
What brings you you’re news my man?
@shrink2cork wrote:
I have two questions, 1. Does any one know if planning is going to be granted for a hotel on Parnell Place Beasly St, South Mall?
2. What is the plan for the building on the corner of Caroline St, Oliver Plunket st. opp Scotts Bar????No, the plans for a 121 bedroom, 80,000sq ft hotel with underground car-parking and spa facility by Monoghan-based Pitwood Ltd, is still currently in Further Information. Niall Fitzsimons are the consulting engineers. CCC are still awaiting the details back – but I’m informed, there is no real problem with the plans other than a few issues regarding the Parnell Street frontage (2 PS facades) and traffic management. I think there may have also been worries about the southern elevation’s height facing back onto Beasley Street and its effect on 93 South Mall (TCH HQ). I have to say, I like the plans and think it would be a great addition to a long-overdue redevelopment site. Parnell Place will be subject to a lot more action in the future as well.
As for the old Spanish restaurant on Oliver Plunkett Street, I’m afraid I don’t know! :confused: 😀
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