lexington
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Well, one must remember that it is Michael O’Donoghue behind Rockfell Investments, and if anyone is familiar with his hotel business (and lifestyle) I think the idea of Shaws or Heatons locating in his Cornmarket Street business is slim to none. (I can verify that also from my involvement). -> the site is zoned for Higher Order Retail Development, so if a department store does secure the space, it will be of a high standard (one name interested has just moved into Dublin). But if it doesn’t go the direction of department store, the development has been designed as 7 retail units which may be divided between a selection of upmarket retaillers.
I’ll try and do my best to get up CGIs of the Rockfell development on Cornmarket Street, and hopefully images of their previous proposal (so that we can sigh and long for what could have been). Their new proposal is essentially a scaled down version (3 floors less) of their last, but scaled down (in my opinion) in utility and prospect as well.
*UPDATES*City Manager Joe Gavin has confirmed today that 3 sites have been designated for the development of a 6000 seat conference centre and event centre.
The sites are located on Horgan’s Quay/Railway Street (as part of the CIE Development of the Northern Docklands [next to Water Street]- see previous post), The Cork Showgrounds (on the southern docklands) and the jutland along the Douglas River/Atlantic Pond at Mahon Point.
It is clear that the CCC favour the Horgan’s Quay site, and have said they have no trouble finding investors for the development here. Treasury Holdings, Manor Park Homes and CIE have been the names behind Horgan’s Quay most prevailently. However, their intention is primarily focused on the development of a major retail, commercial and residential quarter for the site. The convention centre would be ancillary to this. CCC intend to thus put up a PPP bid on the convention centre project for one of the sites, to be decided upon within the next few months. It is their intention to have the centre up and running by 2007.
The problem with the Showgrounds site, although nicely located on the southern docklands, is that the GAA are aggressively in pursuit of the site to provide new training facilities, an extended stadium at Pairc Ui Chaoimh and possibly a hotel and leisure centre. CCC are said to prefer this proposal (on the grounds PuC is to be redeveloped).
O’Callaghan Properties, who are behind the Mahon Point Convention Centre proposal, say they have been intensively involved in a feasibility study for the past 4 months. Owen O’Callaghan is obliged to provide such a facility under a clause of the sale agreement in which he purchased the Mahon Point lands from CCC. Otherwise he may face a payment to the council of 6m euro. O’Callaghan has said he has no interest in pursuing such a development in the city centre, and wishes to focus on Mahon Point, he noted that viability would be an issue for more than 1 such centre, but said that he knew of a vast interest in such development by other investors.
A landmark facility is, in my knowledge, probably most likely for Horgan’s Quay pending a move by O’Callaghan. CCC said they intend to purge ahead with the tender.
The remaining Horgan’s Quay development proposals incl. a redeveloped rail terminal w/ multistorey car-park and ancillary works. Up to 5000 residential units (over stages), offices, retail centres, leisure amenities (clubs, pubs, gyms etc), a central, landmark plaza, boardwalks and many more. The area is zoned for high-rise development (one Irish Examiner report mentioned buildings scaling between 20 stories). However, no developers have made firm commitals due to the lacklustre of CIE organisational skills. Hmmm.
Yeah Pana, that CIE Porta-cabin is only temporary (thank God!) and there was no planning permission required, it came as an incentive during works on Patrick’s Street – which is due to be entirely complete by the end of this week. Final bricks being laid outside Penneys (itself undergoing refurbishment and extension).
As for taxis, I myself, along with all other traffic except for buses and emergency vehicles, think they should be banned for accessing Patrick’s Street and shifted back to Academy Street or kept down at Parnell Place next to the bus station. For a brief time, taxi ranks were shifted to Academy Street, but local vendors and the taxi-drivers themselves kicked up claiming the arrangement was losing them business. This is a fecious argument, if all taxis were legally required to have their main ranks at Parnell Place or Academy Street, the public, if they wanted the service, would have to walk to these streets. The problem with the former arrangement was poor planning, poor public knowledge, and quite frankly, a stubborn reluctance by plate holders (taxi-drivers). New by-laws, however are in the planning at CCC.
And Torquemada, South Mall and Parnell Place are due a new layer of tarmac, but I can’t confirm dates yet. Already, the Western Road, Washington Street West, South Main Street, Grand Parade, Sheare’s Street, the Mardyke, Horgan’s Quay and Water Street have or are receiving new surfaces. The idea is to have all city arteries up to scratch before 2005. More streets, like
Washington Street, North Mall and the remainder of the Western Road are in line for a refurbishment.Leesider, as for the 19-storey Water Street development, the decision date for planning was due on the 21st of July 2004, but has been pushed back until September. From what I hear, even the sceptics are having a tough time catching the development out – the planning application is pretty well covered. However, this doesn’t mean exclusion of the possibility for a negative outcome, nor the fact that Further Info will be requested, nor the fact the outcome could be brought to ABP. I hope planning is granted and third parties won’t bring it to Appeal, it really is a top-notch project. Fingers crossed!
Originally posted by satanta99
ah can’t you give us just a hint of the names that you have heard that are looking at cornmarket st. A really subltle one that those “nice but dim” people in the local press won’t get and can’t write as their own.
Sorry, but I can’t make the same mistakes twice. Rockfell’s development (though I wish it was their previous application on the Guy & Co site) is among the projects I rate most important to Cork’s development. It’s success will determine the tactical and strategic future of Cornmarket Street in a big way – almost more than any CCC investment in the area. Rockfell and CCC have been in long-term discussions with each other on the site, and it is suggested that CCC (especially Joe Gavin and Ronnie McDowell) seriously pursued the retail element of the project, a move a strongly support. Though the retail element is approx. 120,000 sq ft, I still believe it could have been more diverse. A major department store is the way to go on this one.
The projects most important projects at planning stages now in Cork are undoubtedly as follows:
1. Water Street
2. Rockfell’s project on Cornmarket Street
3. John Mannix’s Washington Street project
4. O’Flynn Construction’s Eglinton Street Project
5. Howard Holding’s Albert Quay development
6. Corbett Bros. Parnell Place development
7. and pretty much any Cornmarket Street, Lavitts Quay, Docklands development in the process at the moment.These projects, in no particular order, are vital and I sincerely hope they succeed. However, there are many more, just as important projects in the works, and I will inform you of them when I am allowed to.
*UPDATES*S. Meehan has just applied for a development of a 3 level multi-storey car park and additional commercial units at Grenville Place (end of Bachelor’s Quay – as par my previous post if anyone remembers).
Yeah anto, the Patrick’s Street lamps are a topic of some debate, but I think it’s hard to deny the fact, the city centre is looking way better. Oliver Plunkett Street, Grand Parade, Shandon Street, South Mall and soon to be refurbished Cornmarket Street are all going to add to this.
I agree that Cork still has a long way to go, but it’s nice to see that it is on that way. Some major projects are nearing completion, coming on-line and/or are in planning for the city – its really encouraging.
Fears that developments like Mahon Point, Ballincollig Town Centre and the redevelopment of Douglas Village SC would take away from the city centre, are being combat by projects such as the proposed 150m retail development on Academy Street by O’Callaghan Properties, the 60m retail/residential project at Eglinton Street by O’Flynn Construction, the Grand Parade Plaza by Frinailla, Cornmarket Street (Guy & Co. building) development by Rockfell and proposed 30m retail/leisure development at Grand Parade/Washington Street junction (no confirmation as of yet). As a result, there is a major influx of investment into the city centre, as well as suburbs. The Cork city office market is really coming into swing, with Howard Holdings 100m euro City Quarter office development, O’Callaghan Properties lavish 21 Lavitts Quay, O’Flynn Construction’s No.5 and No.6 Lapps Quay, Corbett Bros. Copley Street office development and their other office development at Parnell Place/Beasley Street – as well as other such projects like Howard Holdings office building for Alberts Quay and the new Irish Examiner HQ on Lavitts Quay. In addition – the full potential of the Cork Docklands will be spectacular.
The market is really treating these developments well – and it is a clear sign, as Howard Holdings always say that ‘Cork is on the up!’ If projects like these keep in motion (and there are many more projects yet to come into effect), Cork is truly getting its act together and will act as a major counter-balance.
As for litter, believe it or not, Cork has actually got an awful lot better it’s refuse problems – but I agree, we really need to enforce more stringent laws against the shameful crime. Though I refuse to believe Cork is any worse than places like Dublin and Limerick, it doens’t mean we can slack off in our fight on litter. Cork should be a leading example.
*UPDATES*In addition to Irish Examiner reports today (28th July 2004), I have been informed that Rockfell Investments look set to be grant permission for their major retail and residential development on Cornmarket Street. The development will include a 6-storey building with 7 retail units amounting to 120,000sq ft in retail space over 2 floors, with the remaining floors utilised as 80 apartments (it is likely this figure will be readdressed). The retail units will be configured to satisfy department store needs. A few big names have expressed interest in this development already, but I can’t reveal their identities without offical notice of planning permission grant. (also because some reporter may splash it all over a local tabloid).
The development will revitalise the street, which it badly needs, and which is set to become a new retail and cultural quarter extending off Patrick’s Street (see previous reports).
Originally, Rockfell had applied back in 1999 for a 9-storey, 408 bedroom hotel development with 1300 seat conference centre, leisure centre, superpub, 20 retail units and 172 space double basement car-park on the same site – but it was refused by ABP. This development was a great loss to Cork – probably one of its biggest in recent times – its design and utility would have revitalised the area much sooner and breathe new life into the street on all levels. It’s most recent incarnation is not up to the same scratch as the past proposal I feel, but it would be a positive step nonethless. I just hope ABP don’t have to get involved this time. An equivalent such loss nowadays would be Water Street, who’s decision has been pushed back until September – I just hope the same mistake isn’t made twice.
Architect = Frank Ennis and Assoc.
Developers = Rockfell Investments (headed by Michael O’Donoghue of the O’Donoghue/Ring Hotel Group and Munster Joinery)Yeah Devin, a 7m euro redevelopment of Merchants Quay SC has already begun and is expected to be complete in time for 2005. However, this redevelopment involves few external alterations and it is unlikely they will be substantial in scale to make the building look in anyway better.
Yes – the report in the Evening Echo, reported by Christina O’Rourke, has a question mark hanging over her ‘property source’. Particular informations supplied in her article are found exclusive to this forum, even the information orders mirror my post. As a consequence, I will investigate the background of the article and be in contact with the aforementioned reporter – and perhaps, based on my reply outcome, the Evening Echo editorial time, plus particular TCM managerial staff. I would hope, that such incidents – if proven to be taken from this forum – will not occur again without prior consent of resepective contributers. I have researched the legal aspects of these acts and they are all supportive of prior consentual initiatives from the primary source before secondary publication regardless of specific word arrangement.
I encourage and willfully supply such information – but within context and based on consent. Media publication of such information at a mass level – jeporadise my ability to provide further, future information – as I am the one who hears all about it at the other end of an angry phone call. If Ms. O’Rourke is found to have adapted such primary source material from this forum and my post for her own benefit, it would paint a poor and unhealthy veil over the reliability and moral conduct of the associated media agency – and may see further announcements of major property developments purposely leaked to other media organisations before that of Ms. O’Rourke’s or other sources within the public domain. I certainly hope that this will not be the case.
The unfortunate thing is, I would gladly inform Ms. O’Rourke of breaking deals and reliable exclusives within the world of Cork’s property market – in conjunction with this forum, if only consent was sought beforehand. What goes on the website and what goes in the press may seem like trivial matters to some – but unfortunately, this is not the view of those involved. As a result, what goes to press must be cautioned and cherry-picked in accordance with associative consequences.
As I figured, Frinailla have been refused planning by ABP w.r.t. their 70m euro, 9-storey development along Watercourse Road in Blackpool. Hopefully Frinailla will revise their development and reapproach Blackpool in the near future.
d_d_dallas
Lexington – is that part of Cork facing student accommodation overkill? It seems that end of UCC was bereft for years and suddenly everyone is jumping on the wagon. A student ghetto???This is a sorta dodgy question. There’s a couple of things you have to realise – the current Cork City Development Plan has strongly emphasised its desire to reclaim city housing for owner-occupiers/families from investor activities related to student accomodation – most of which is centre along the College Road, Connaught Avenue area. Victoria Cross was earmarked as the preferred area for purpose built student accomodation to facilitate the expanding campus which stretches for the ERI on the Lee Road to the Distillery Fields on the North Mall. As the Cork County Hall area is also zoned for high-rise development, and the Section 50 tax designation, developers were approached by UCC who, in line with the development plan, decided to embark on student developments. You have to remember, almost all new student developments – Farranlea Hall, Victoria Lodge, the Spires and the project undertaken by Fleming Construction for the former M&P O’Sullivan Cash & Carry site, currently in appeal, were all undertaken by private developers on behalf of UCC for UCC requirements. Victoria Hall, the Kingsley/Rathmelton Investments development, Cregnane Hall and so on, were undertaken privately. If the development plan succeeds, a satisfactory demand will soak up all these current developments, but as it stands, UCC Accomodations Offices apparently had a hard time filling all these new developments last year. And now that, come this new academic year, bed numbers have doubled, and will triple with Rathmelton Investments and O’Shea Builders developments soon to begin construction. It’s a dodgy development area, but if cards are played right, it may just pay-off. But it’ll be tight. Not every UCC student or family can afford between 3000 and 6000 euros in accommodation every year.
Hey Phil, details of the Bus Station are available in a previous page of this thread – with pictures. It’s nothing to get too excited about. Trust me. More pics available if ya want.Well, I don’t think that Patrick’s Street picture is the most flattering – but that aside, I do believe the lights are unique, I mean, the fact that they have sparked up debate is what striking architecture should do. You don’t have to like it, but at least it gets noticed.
I have to say, I kinda like the revamp of O’Connell Street, maybe its the imposing figure of the Spire overlooking the thoroughfare, that makes the street look that bit better. Perhaps without the Spire’s presence the street would look much more dire. In contrast, I do feel (lights aside), the redevelopment of Patrick’s Street in Cork has a much warmer feel to it than O’Connell Street, it gives off a nice ‘city on the rise’ feel without compromising a sense of homeliness. I think the description of the lights as being ‘level crossing barriers’ is a good one, but ya can’t deny, the whole street has become a vibe of activity since the development. Pedestrian traffic has tripled and business is growing like never before according to retaillers on the street. Oliver Plunkett Street and Grand Parade are set for the same, with simlar plans for Grand Parade, but with more incorporation of plant-life and market vibrancy.
Originally posted by corkdood
Plans are also afoot to demolish Jurys Hotel on western road and build a new hotel complex plus a separate apartment and creche development plus a new bridge linking it with Lancaster QuayWell, the plan includes a partial demolition to cater for refurbishment. The proposed development for Jurys on the Western Road includes a private multi-storey car-park, additional floor to cater for between 40 to 60 new rooms, extended conference facilities, internal refurbishment, external facade and structural adjustments to existing river-side hotel, possible additional fourth floor, new leisure facilities, adjusted amenity landscaping and demolition and relocation of new, wider bridge between new development and Lancaster Quay/Western Road.
*UPDATES*
-> Speaking of hotels, the Kingsley Hotel on the Carrigohane Straight Road, across the road from the 60m euro Cork County Hall extension and redevelopment, have just been greenlighted for a 50m euro extension, including construction of 10178 sq.m. of new hotel facilities, comprising 4674 sq.m. 82 bedroom extension in two new wings to the existing Kingsley Hotel, 818 sq.m. of conference facilities, 597 sq.m. of leisure and spa facilities, 500 sq.m. extended dining and kitchen facilities, and 3589 sq.m. 19 unit aparthotel and associated offices to the Western end of the existing hotel. 3. Two level basement carpark of 740 spaces to serve the two developments, and 102 surface spaces. 4. Formation of a new vehicular access to the centre of the site. And all other site development works including internal access roads, parking areas, and landscaping to facilitate the proposed development
-> Right next to the Kingsley (and as part of the same application as the above) on site of a former Park and Ride facility, permission, after appeal, has been granted to Rathmelton Investments Ltd for construction of a new 14,068 sq.m. five storey student housing development, comprising 116 apartments, (514 student bedspaces) and to incorporate 840 sq.m. communal facilities including retail, restaurant, laundary, and other support facilities. Rathmelton is responsible for this development of both the Kingsley and Student accomodation.
Construction begins soon.-> Meanwhile, just a few steps away from the Kingsley, Paul Montgomery and Edmund Kenneally’s 25m euro 9-storey student development, Victoria Hall, is seeing the scaffolding come gradually down on the main building, work is swiftly continuing on the Victoria Cross elevation. Anyway, the same developers are in appeal for a further student development on the site of the current Statoil station adjacent to Victoria Hall. Next to that, on the site of the former M&P O’Sullivan Cash & Carry, Fleming Construction are in appeal for a student development of 166 student apartments in 4 5-storey blocks.
Some interesting construction pics of Victoria Hall.
More recent pics of Victoria Hall.Visitt THIS link to see computer images of the finished product – both Phase One of Victoria Hall, and 2nd phase currently in appeal (former Statoil) ->
-> In an answer to an e-mail enquiry for a forum member; the development at Camden Quay, across the road from John Hornibrook’s 20m-euro residential (58 apartments) and commercial (offices, 9 retail units and restaurant) development, is being developed by Neil O’Sullivan of OSB (O’Sullivan Bros.) DIY store in Hollyhill Industrial Estate, Cork. The current, first phase of development consists of demolition of existing industrial buildings, the construction of 40 No. apartments, incorporating 32 No. 2 bed and 8 No. 1 bed and ancillary site works and minor elevation alterations to the property at 4 Camden Quay (Protected Structure). Contractors are John Supple Ltd. However, the 2nd phase of the development is in appeal, thanks to ‘you know who’, it involves, the demolition of existing buildings, the construction of 55 no. apartments, incorporating 16 no. 1 bed and 39 no. 2 bed, the reconstruction of the Cork Arts Theatre and Pa Johnsons licensed premises and ancillary site works
along 10 & 11 Devonshire Street, 4 – 7 Knapps Square, Camden Quay.The fact that this 2nd phase has gone to appeal is a great shame, this area is the last remaining negelected site along Camden Quay (which one must agree looks so much more cosmopolitan and impressive as a result of the many major developments here), and the design is in keeping with the area respective of adjacent developments. It would provide a badly needed new Cork Arts Theatre coming into Cork’s year as Capital of Culture and reconstruct Pa Johnson’s famous local bar, which is near ruin. James Leahy and Associates (not always my favourite architectural firm – but who have made a nice effort on this particular development) are the design time for this project. I have to say, it is by far one of Leahy’s better projects. A great pity, which was one of the conditions under which CCC granted the project, was the removal of a 6th floor roof garden, with playground and extensive vegetation and the works – it would have been a superb amenity element to the project for residents. It was conditionally removed on the grounds that it would be a visual impediment to Shandon Bells (don’t ask! – it ticked me off too trying to answer it, I mean, it was a garden – not an additional concrete floor!).
PS. Not forgetting about pics of UCC School of Pharamacy – just having trouble posting them. Will so my best to get them up as soon as I can!*UPDATES*
The Munster Agricultural Show Society – owners of the Cork Showgrounds in the Docklands Area – confirmed today it is in the process of determining between 2 bids for the 22-acre site. One bid is being made by the GAA who own the adjacent Pairc Ui Chaoimh, the acquired site would allow for further development of the GAA Grounds. Another bid proposes a 5000 seat convention/conference centre and commercial area – rivalling a similar bid proposed on Horgan’s Quay by CIE/Treasury Holdings and Manor Park Homes.
-> a 5m -euro plan to redeveloped Cornmarket Street is set to get the go-ahead by early next month – this would compliment the 30m euro residential and retail development by Rockfell Investments on the former Guy & Co site, which is still awaiting a planning decision.
2 other large scale development projects are currently at pre-planning along Cornmarket Street and announcements are expected to be made on these in the near future.
-> The Millenium Cornmarket Street Bridge, whose sections can be seen resting along Lavitts Quay, are being shift into place soon. CCC are funding the project, Ascon are the contractors. The bridge is expected to further compliment the pedestrian flow to the street – which is, in development terms, one of the most exciting and sought after streets in the country – as it is seen, along with Grand Parade as a natural extension of Patrick’s Street.
Its being a newsworthy day in the Cork development arena:
*UPDATES*
– Pierse Construction are to begin construction on the 20m-euro UCC School of Pharmacy, on College Road this August. (I will post a picture of the development on this post later on when I edit it).
– Merchants Quay SC is scheduled to undergo a 7m euro facelift – in order to make the centre a more attractive place to shop running up to Cork 2005 and its 15-year anniversary. (Will post pic here later also). The design is subtle but exciting nonetheless.
– Frinailla have gone to appeal on its project for 221 homes, 74 apartments, creche and after school-minding centre on a 21-acre site between Ballincollig and the city (east-side). The project was scheduled to commence this August.
-> Frinailla seem to be getting a real tough time in the recent projects; their 70m high-rise residential project in Blackpool was refused by CCC, has since gone to ABP on appeal and waits decision – but the prospects are dim.; their 30m An Caislean project suffered as the building contractors assigned to the development went into liquidation half-way through the project (a lone tower crane still remains on a vacant site); their Grand Parade Plaza project has been held up due to archelogical excavations – which seem to never end; and now this project in Ballincollig’s east-side. Just hope their fortunes pick up. Roll on the Grand Parade Plaza!Then you will respect that not all people share the same preference for architecture – and that must be respected. This is a forum for discussion of opinion after all.
Originally posted by Devin
I know that Cork city centre is a special place and that new development there should be of high urban design quality.I don’t know what the schemes that were refused for Cork city were like, but I did notice that, in all his moaning and sobbing, lexington never once stated the grounds of objection (or refusal) for his schemes. Was it scale? exceedence of recommended plot ratio? architectural design? impact on older buildings? traffic generation? Only once he said something about old warehouses.
The Watergold Building remains a favourite of mine, but it is not a building I would vehemently support in Cork city centre. I am more mystified by its arrogant beauty – in how it stands out unashamedly in an area like Douglas. The real monstrosities of Douglas are that of the Douglas Court SC and Douglas Village SC, were you to see these buildings with relation to the Watergold Building, I think you’d agree it is somewhat of an oasis. My personal preference for architecture has always been rooted in post-modern. However, there is no example of architecture I have ever come across that has reflected this preference. Though I like Watergold, it is not a building I would involve myself in. Of projects we have at preplanning, it is widely agreed, their architectural quality is superior to anything of that in the city at present – with exception to some of the older buildings. I can’t discuss this more but when I can, I will post CGs.
First of all, on ALL the projects I have listed, plus more, I will gladly state the grounds for objection upon your request, just ask or specify a particular project. All the objections can be validated through contact with CCC Planning Dept. on telephone at either (021) 4924321 / 4924324 / 4924325.
After further consultation with Werdna Ltd, all existing warehouse buildings which are NOT protected structures at Water Street are being renovated and retained at large expense in the local public interest (MOLA made such concessions) and at the foresighted risk of objection (this was decided upon BEFORE An T objected or any application was lodged. See the below drawings as proof.) An T objected to this particular project on the grounds that it would be aesthestically adverse to the existing nature of Cork Port (this is a point you can judge for yourself on viewing of the drawings. Even Diaspora, who often varies opinion from me on such issues, agrees the design reflects a high quality) AND that construction may disrupt the condition of existing warehouse structures, as well as the slip-way on the former Cork Port site – ALL of which are being retained and protected for incorporation into the project – changed of use to IT/Business Centre facilities. These are spurious grounds for objection as their retention and preservation are important elements of the development and viability plan and application. NO structural changes are being made with the exception of some internal refurbishment and adjustment from warehousing which is derelict, vacant and NOT protected (see CCC Protected Structures Guide List 2004) to commercial use.
(Picture outlining development plan – note the EXISTING STRUCTURES are highlighted, these are for retention)
The EIS submitted suggests that the main routes of Horgan’s Quay (currently being relayed, resurfaced and widened leading to city centre) and Lower Glanmire Road (an N Route) would be the predominant traffic ways affected by the development which would incorporate 482 vehicle spaces for residential and commercial use. The EIS and Senior City Engineer agree that the proximity of the development to the main routes would mean vehicular activity would be sustainable in consideration that most residents would have easy pedestrian access to the city centre from such a location. The development scale is mentioned below – as you enquired. The development site on Water Street as well as Horgan’s Quay are both zoned for such large scale development – of which Horgan’s Quay has in the past received planning (a plan which for political reasons did not proceed).
Client: Werdna Ltd.
Site Area: 1.6217 hectares (4 acres)
No. of Units: 400 Apartments
– 1 Bed Apartments – 50 units
– 2 Bed Apartments – 314 units
(77 sq.m. to 115 sq.m. per unit)
– 3 Bed Apartments – 36 units
Business Centre
Creche
Shops/Cáfe
Floor Area: Residential
Business Centre
Office
Retail
Creche 44,391 sq.m.
2,500 sq.m.
172 sq.m.
506 sq.m.
253 sq.m.Parking Area: 11,950 sq.m.
478 Car Parking SpacesDensity: 100 units per acre
Plot Ratio: 1:2.78
Contract Value: €80 millionFor similar information on ANY of the projects which I have previously mentioned or haven’t. I will provide all the details you deem important – and in ALL cases show how An T’s objections are weak and destructive (with the exception of the Grangefield Development at the Arbutus Lodge, an objection I whole-heartedly support along with the residents. This is a valid objection with consideration to architectural conservation, resident privacy, zoning and traffic consequences).
Originally posted by lawyer
I think the proposals for the new bus station are terrible.
How did the Cork City Council approve them?Well the orginal plan saw the extension and partial demolition of existing bus station with a 360-degree ‘control tower’ erected on the roof and so on – this inadequate but substantially better plan was given approval originally, but Bus Eireann came back a few months later and amended their plans, cutting back on almost all major development elements bar the canopy erection. Pathetic!
Meanwhile, Oliver Plunkett Street (OPS) is looking pretty good – though there’s clearly a long way to go yet, some of the first section of its new design has been unveiled and what an improvement it is!
*UPDATES*Though its 2 years away yet, O’Callaghan Properties have put the bid out on designs for the Academy Street (Irish Examiner HQ) retail development – which will cost an est’d 150m euro to build. Deals have recently been completed with almost all the surrounding properties bar the AA Ireland Building. The design will by way of planning need to consider the AA Ireland Building and Le Cheateau public house on Patrick’s Street in its design as these are protected structures – and trust me – will be virtually impossible to get passed with relation to any development – and rightly so. They are important elements of Cork’s history and architecture.
It is believed, the 6 storey over basement development of mixed retail and residential, will hark back to a post-modern design with consideration for its surroundings such as the Crawford Gallery, Patrick Street redevelopment, AA Ireland Building and Le Cheateau. I am informed that the developer is keen to provide a landmark development incorporating modern and old styles – an example of the Jervis Street Shopping Centre entrance on Henry Street in Dublin was given (a large peaked arch way and copper dome incorporating red-brick to blend with surrounding buildings of foregone eras.)
O’Callaghan Properties, with the exception of 21 Lavitts Quay don’t have a good track record for design, so this project will be a HUGE test for them. Both planning authorities and the public are going to demand a superior standard of design for such a prestigious location and development. Here’s hoping!
Originally posted by mickeydocs
Anybody got a link to this story? I couldn’t find it in the archives.I can’t find it in the TCM Archives either mickeydocs – but it was published on the 8th of July in the IE. It was related to the story on the acquistion of the Sextant Bar by Careys Tool Hire.
I agree that transatlantic flights are and will become ever more important to Cork – and by result, the whole Southern Region, a region of over 1.1m people.
-> No news on the German bank for the docklands. There are many multimillion euro deals currently being organised within City Hall at the moment with relation to the docklands in Cork, one report (by Tommy Barker of Irish Examiner, Thurs 8th July 2004) is rumoured to be in excess of 200m euro. The German bank residency could depend on the outcome of any one of these deals.
-> According to the PRO for O’Flynn Construction’s Ballincollig Town Centre project, a major food retail chain has been agreed to anchor the SC. Although Tesco is a name that has been put strongly up in the air, Tesco Ireland claim their main focus has been on Mahon Point and Wilton. This does not rule them out, but Marks & Spencer, who long ago where the front-runners to anchor the food store at Mahon Point and later pulled out, have been seeking a second property in Cork city (their current Cork store is the 4th most profitable in the entire network) and local real estate agents have hinted strongly that BTC is the best available location.
However the decision has already been made and only time will reveal. Processes of elimination narrow the list of potentials, it won’t be SuperValu, they already have 2 stores in town and it would adversely affect these existing businesses. Dunnes are focusing on a new store in Carrigaline and Bishopstown Court nearby is ongoing expansion. It is too close to BTC to be viable. Tesco may, but their huge new 24hr Wilton SC store is still undergoing development and a new store at Mahon Point makes location to BTC unlikely – but still a possibility. That leaves Marks & Spencer, who have been seeking a new Cork property actively and would stand to benefit greatly from a new store here. Aldi and Lidl are pursuing their own seperate new stores in Ballincollig.
Originally posted by Leesider
firstly I was wondering is there any news on the proposed Cork to NY route that was mentioned somewhere at the start of this thread?Also lexington I thought that IT centre for UCC had got planning ages ago, thought they should have started construction well before now!!
BTW good thread and the updates are excellent Lexington, keep us informed!!
Thanks man! I appreciate that seriously! 🙂
The Cork – New York JFK route is to be run by Aer Lingus 3x a week at first – pending on the outcome of US-Ireland Bilateral Aviation Agreements. (Basically, it comes down to abolishing the Shannon Stop-over – at the moment, for every transatlantic flight from an Irish city besides Shannon, has to be met with the same number of flights to that transatlantic destination from Shannon – it’s a complete joke!)The negotiations are on-going. Willie Walsh, CEO of Aer Lingus said that in the long-run, it would make more economic sense to have more transatlantic passenger flights from Cork rather than Shannon – which he believes should become one of the Cargo Hubs of Europe. It does make sense – more jobs in the long-run. But he stresses the need for an extended runway and new taxiways. The new terminal development (see previous Cork Airport post) is already catering to new parking areas and air-bridges to facilitate such aircraft. This year, Cork will carry almost a third more passengers than Shannon. (projected 2.8 < million passengers)
And no formal application for Planning has been submitted by UCC with relation to the IT Centre construction – but has been outlined as part of the UCC Development Plan. A sort of outline permission has been granted subject to conditions – by ‘outline’ I mean, support by CCC, but no formal planning.
*UPDATES*The Dept. of Education have said that they intend to stand by Jarvis in the development of the CSM – but though some preliminary construction work has begun, no construction other than this will begin until at least June 2005 (a further push back along the time-line). This, it is claimed, is due to the fact that signatures are needed by all Jarvis’ financial backers to give them the go-ahead in lieu of the construction firm’s 230m euro debt.
Well – in-line with my earlier reports, the Mercy University Hospital in Cork together with UCC have purchased the Irish Distillers site on the North Mall for 20m euro. The lands are to be split evenly between the 2 organisations.
Now that the bidding is closed, I can tell you that a joint venture of bidders, one reportedly Hanranka Ltd. has bid also for the site, but withdrew due to undisclosed reasons. The private venture would have included a new urban quarter for Cork with offices, shopping boulevards, cafes, restaurants, residential units, boardwalks, nightclubs, bars, public amenity park, university buildings and a site that would have been offered to the Mercy Hospital anyway. It’s a shame this didn’t get through.
The Mercy claim to have trouble financing their new A&E but have been able to splash out on this acquisition. UCC, also claiming financial restrictions, are completing their new 50m Medical Facility at Brookfield, have just received planning for a new 25m euro Pharmacy School on College Road, applied for planning for a new 35m euro Boole Library extension and are applying for a new 62m-euro IT centre on the former Greyhound Track along the Western Road. Hmmmm. Well I suppose congratulations are in order – I just hope they use the lands wisely.
I’ve attained a list of tenants for the new 500m euro, 381,000sq ft (not incl. Debenhams and Tesco stores) Mahon Point SC in Cork – these tenants will be confirmed for definite in September (if not otherwise stated below) plus additional tenant names – this is only what I can reveal as of now.
Retail Tenants:
-> (C) = Confirmed Letting/Sale, (L) = Letting Agreed
1. Debenhams (C), 2. Tesco (C) 3. Next (C) 4. Schuh (C) 5. Sam McCauley (C) 6. Pamela Scott (C) 7. Mango (C) 8. Zara (C) 9. Champion Sports (C) 10. River Island (C) 11. Sasha (C) 12. Easons (C) 13. Oasis (C) 14. Pull and Bear (C) 15. Clinton Cards (C) 16. HMV (L) 17. Barratts (C). 18. Vero Moda (L) 19. Jack & Jones (L) 20. fcuk (C) 21. 3G (L) 22. Topshop (L)* 23. Game (C) 24. Miss Selfridge (L) 25. Waterstones (L) 26. Monsoon (L) – many more to be confirmed.
[*Arcadia has announced that it plans to limit its expansion plans for reasons of cost-cutting. Although its Irish stores remain among its most profitable. It is unknown as to how this may affect its Mahon Point store as no papers have yet been signed.]
Food Court Tenants:
1. McDonalds (C) 2. KFC (C) 3. Zumo Juice Bars (L) 4. Subway (L) – plus more to be confirmed.Retail Park Tenants:
1. B&Q (C) 2. Johnson & Perrott (C). 3. Webprint Concepts (C)Multiplex Tenant:
1. Ward Anderson (L) (*had contested with UCI)Hotel Operator:
1. Hilton Hotels International (C)__________________________
Just on this note:
Wilton SC Extension:
Confirmed Retail Tenants: 1. New Look 2. Specsavers 3. Brown Thomas (BT2) 4. Azal Properties (O’Brien’s Sandwich Bar) – more to be announced soon.
Blackpool Retail Park: 1. Atlantic Homecare 2. BPD Leisure (Bowling Alley) 3. Reel Cinemas (Multiplex) – more to be announced soon.
Eastgate, Little Island, Commercial Park: 1. PC World 2. Homebase – more to be announced soon.
Ballincollig Town Centre SC: 1. Marks & Spencer (this is the rumoured tenant. No confirmations until end of July according to O’Flynn Construction)
