Radioactiveman
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@A-ha wrote:
I always rate towns on what shops and restaurants they have in them. Thats why I’m not much of a fan of Waterford. Only one shopping centre in the city centre and no Marks and Spencers.
Thats a really depressing thought A-ha, SHould you not rate towns on the friendliness of the people, the variety of open spaces, the quality of schools, cultural activities and places of worship? Or am I just fooling myself?
With regard to Frinailla’s Lady’s Well, (nice images lexington!) I think everyone agrees that that area of Watercourse Road in particular is in urgent need of a revamp. It was left to rot by stakeholders for far to long and up to a very short time ago, the City Council had no interest in the site.
Despite this, I know the local community would not be willing to accept a situation where an inappropriate development is slotted in – based on the pre-conception that anything at all is better than what is currently there.
The original plans, way back when were totally unsuitable for the site. The individual pieces were too tall (and I LOVE tall buildings :)) and the overall look was as if it had been parachuted in. This is certainly been a long drawn out process (extended even further now by ABP) but I think if we look at what was originally proposed and what is now proposed, we see what could have been achieved (and much faster) if the developers had realised how locals would react to the development.
As it stands now, I would be flabergasted if ABP did not back-up Cork CIty Council’s decision to grant permission. I’ll look forward to seeing how the plan envisaged is realised in bricks and mortar.Incidently, Lexington, I dont understand how Frinailla can link the decision at Blackpool to the start up of their City Square development. Surely these are individual projects and the CIty Council/ABP should not be held to ransom like this.
O’Callaghan properties have indicated that the space used as a temporary Gallery in their new Lavitts Quay development (21 Lavitts Quay) may become a permanent fixture after Cork 2005 ends.
The exhibition space is currently playing host to Sebastião Salgado and Simon Norfolk exhibitions. They gallery is a huge success and has been praised for its location and the bright, simple space it makes available to artists.
Keeping with things cultural, a temporary Scaffolding has been erected in the River at the North Mall to facilitate the start of THE LEE SWIM which takes place this Saturday at 4 pm.
Blackpool Developments have applied for permission to alter a previously granted scheme (TP: 05/29320) which was to demolish a period house at 45/46 Dublin Street in order to construct a childcare centre on the ground floor and an apartment at the first floor.
The proposed changes seek to allow the option of the use of the new building for a creche at both the ground and first floor and importantly, access from Blackpool Shopping Centre (which is immediately to the rear of the house. The creche would serve a total of 50 children aged 0 to 6 years and would have opening hours of 8am to 7pm. The total gross floor area of the proposed development is 279m.sqAs I mentioned above, I believe Blackpool Shopping Centre /Retail Park has been largely beneficial for the Blackpool area as a whole. One of the main reasons for this is that the developers made use of barrren wasteland which was made accessible by the Blackpool bypass. This development is totally different as it seeks to ‘eat in’ to the historic streetscape in the area. The house to be demolished is a fine example of period housing in the area and permission should never have been granted for its demolition.
I’d agree with Lexington as regards Blackpool SC/RP. It’s far supperior than Mahon Point but just doesn’t get the hype.
One of the big problems facing the area now is the lack of a decent public transport system. The number three is the lifeline for most public transport users- the number 5 timetable was britally butchered a few years ago. Even now, with the re-generation of Watercourse road, number 3 is severely diverted- albeit temporarily.
Of course the area has been promised the return of the train station at KIlbarry, however without onward links from Kent Station to other areas of the city, this will be next to useless for residents.—The ABP decision on Frinailla’s Lady’s Well is now due on the 13th of October.–
@pier39 wrote:
……….the parnell hotel plan here seems to have abandoned the trad 90degree idea in exchange for varying angular aspects. the use of variations in the limestone claddings color and size adds to the inconsistent effect and the support column at the ground floor of 93 south mall almost seems gehry-esque – position at a 70degree angle(?) rather than boring old 90. ooooo im all excited! keep these kinda ideas up jimmy! tis mighty and will do the city no harm to have a bit of ooo lala! 😀
If it’s not a right angle, it’s a wrong angle – seems a little too much for me. What does the view from Parnell Street look like? Almost missed those images as well.
The County Hall is still the tallest building in the country. Any news on when it is due for completion?
Also, anybody know the latest on the School of Music debacle?
@lexington wrote:
Surprised no-body mentioned ‘Bishop Lucey Park’ – the “Peace Park” as a good example of open public space – small, but an important break in the rows of buildings that dominate the city centre.
Agreed, it’s a lovely spot.
Just to be pedantic about it however- Bishop Lucey Park is that park stretching from South Main Street to Grand Parade, the one which I believe you are referring to Lex. It is not and has never been officially called the Peace Park.
The peace park is that small green area at the corner of Grand Parade and South Mall which contains the Hiroshima/Nagasaki memorial and the WW2 memorial.Its just a small thing, but it really bugs me and the confusion seems to be spreading.
It’s worth taking a look at the Cornmarket Street Area Development Plan on the CCC website for some interesting insights into the way people are thinking about the future development of the area.
In particular, it deals in depth with the Guys site, The Loft site and the Kyrls Quay sites (the subject of a recent competition).Some interesting visuals from the plan are set out below:
Sites for development in the area:
A possible park at the Northern end of the area:
The improved street market:
@A-ha wrote:
Does no-body not care about my crematorium? :p
As far as i know, the crematorium is planned for Rocky Island in Cork Harbour. This is surprise surprise, a small rocky outcrop between the mainland (at ringaskiddy) and Haulbowline (containing the former Irish Steel site and Irish Naval Headquarters).
As for who’s behind it, im not sure.It’ll be interesting to see what becomes of the Irish ISPAT site after the eventual clean up. Is it State property now?
Those images of Cornmarket Street make me a lot happier than the previous images. I’d agree with lexington- the structure on the roof makes the building.
Lex, I presume your hinting at a redevelopment of The Loft furniture store. Thats my guess at least. The cornmarket bar next door has been well done and if this is done along the same lines i’d be very happy. Less is more here i think!!
Great news too about Beasly Street/ Parnell Place. Lets hope no more time is wasted. Those protected facades are looking weaker and weaker every week.T&C partnership have been given permission by CCC for the complete demolition of what remains of the old Capuchin Church on Blackmore lane (which the company illegally demolished last year).
Both the company involved and Cork City Council should be ashamed of themselves.It seems it is now a free-for-all.
If anybody wants me i’ll be up at St.Finbarres Cathedral with my wrecking ball — I fancy some student apartments and lets face it, who’s going to stop me??
@jungle wrote:
I can see that being demolished and something new built there. A store won’t easily go into an old bank. Also, (from memory) a lot of the building is only one storey.
I think you’re confusing the AIB Bank with the Bank of Ireland nearby- this was refurbished about 3 years ago.
There is no chance of AIB being demolished it is almost definately a listed building.Here it is:
Seems a shame if this was to turn into another monsoon or some other foreign fashion shop.
On a totally unrelated subject: as was discussed recently on this thread, The Grand Parade is being re-modelled. It’ll be interesting to note what is done with the bollard located near the entrance of Bishop Lucey Park. I hope the powers that be have the good sense to leave it where it is. It’s made from the inverted barrel of a canon and is one of my favourite little gems on the streets of Cork. It’s apparently unknown where it comes from, but for my money, i’d say its a remnant of the statue which used to be positioned where the National Monument is now. They’re circled in this Cork Camera Club image. Can anybody shed any more light on the subject?
Note the horse in the centre of the pcture is where the street gets its Irish name Sraid an Capaill Bui (Yellow Horse Street), although that particular shade of yellow is slightly exagerated 🙂
There’s a great story about the statue. Apparently it was always a bit on the wobbly side and began leaning over soon after it was constructed – you can see the struts supporting it in the image below. One night some “tired and emotional” inhabitants manages to push King George off his perch and into the river. The bronze statue was apparently melted down but it’s head remains somewhere in England- or so the story goes.Sorry for this little aside- but it is the silly season after all! 🙂
@lexington wrote:
😎 Howard Holdings have been taken to appeal by David Matthews (Matthews Centre) regarding their plans for a new 7-storey Comfort Inn at No.16 Lavitts Quay, design by Reddy O’Riordan Staehli. The €20m project was recently greenlit by CCC – images are featured of the development earlier in this thread, which I will try and get back up for this post later tonight. The project, which was subject to substantial revisions, features 7-storeys to the rear of No.16 Lavitts Quay (which will be incoprorated for cafe and office use), a reatil unit, basement parking and just under 114 rooms (following CCC conditions).
As well as being a god awful design, this Hotel will block out one of the very few views on Shandon from St. Patrick Street.
Next time you’re outside River Island look straight up Maylor Street – its pretty impressive.
I know the Development Plan protects views of listed buildings so thats another reason why i’d support David Matthews appeal.
Speaking of St. Patrick Street, the new shopfront on the AIB adjacent to Penneys is a beauty. In particular the side of the building heading down along Robert Street is beautiful- really sleek and very well finished in limestone. It was worth the wait!
AIB at the other end of the street (adjacent to Waterstones) will close when this one opens. This will leave another vacant store on the Street! Unlike some of the others though, this is of a more attractive size for retailers i’d imagine.
What do people think of the new apartments gone up on Blarney Street- the rear of which are most visible from Bachelors Quay, etc. They certainly make a big impact on the skyline in this sensitive area. Thank god they used pitched roofs- architects (or maybe that should be accountants?) seem to have an obsession with nasty flat roofs even when pitched roofs dominate in a particular area.
I’ll try to post some pictures of the Blarney Street development in the next few days.
Below are the current figures for the Stirling Prize vote on BBConline.
If you haven’t voted already you can do so here.BMW, Leipzig
7.43%
Lewis Glucksman Gallery, Cork
33.06%
Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh
17.62%
McLaren Centre, Woking
25.88%
Jubilee Library, Brighton
9.16%
Fawood Children’s Centre, Harlesden
6.86%17622 Votes Cast
Cork Heritage Open Day will see nearly 30 of Cork’s most fascinating buildings many of which have never been by the public before, open their doors free of charge for one day only on Saturday September the 10th 2005. The Lord Mayor Councillor Deirdre Clune, will open this exciting event at 9.30 a.m. by visiting the historic home of the Lord Mayor of Cork at the Mercy Hospital Mansion House.
Cork Heritage Open Day is a unique event which will be held on Saturday the 10 th of September 2005, celebrating the amazing architecture and history of the Built Heritage in the Cork City Region.
Cork’s Built Heritage tells the tale of wars and peace, learning and praying, high living and humble beginnings through buildings such as Collins Barracks, Blackrock Castle, The Life time Lab, The Unitarian Church, The Clarion Hotel Penthouse and Frank O Connor House to mention a few.
Many of these breathtaking buildings have never been open to the public in this manner before and are relatively unknown to visitors and the citizens of Cork. Cork Heritage Open Day invites you to explore Cork’s hidden treasures and enjoy the unique story of Cork’s Built Heritage.@lexington wrote:
🙂 Corbett Bros. are seeking to lodge an application for a 22-unit apartment development over basement car-park with CCC soon. The 3-storey development is destined for Carmelite Place, off the Western Road and is designed by James Leahy & Associates. The site was bought quietly earlier this year from vendor Dermot O’Keefe, who had previously sought permission for a 4-storey, 20-unit student apartment development over basement car-park (designed by PRC Architects) and was refused on appeal. As part of the project, the 6-terraced houses at Carmelite Place, and Carmelite Stores, will be demolished.
It’s a terrible indication of the state of our planning controls that 6 well built, decent family homes can be bought up, left to rot and demolished like this. I followed the previous application with interest. It was a substandard design for the location.
The fact remains though that there is no reason for demolition of these properties. The terrace as a whole represents a transition from the built up student accomodation area near college to the more permanent residential areas of Sunday’s Well. 😡Incidently, i probably shouldn’t be saying this given my stance on their demolition BUT, if they were to be demolished I’m surprised AIB next door didnt come on board to develop a larger scale mixed use development with the bank on the ground floor.
@securityman wrote:
Would I be right in saying that the development you are on about on the watercourse road is where the 147 snooker club was and trotters second hand shop next to the garda station as far as I know all that part of the street is being redeveloped.
147/trotters/mac’s meat is all part of a proposed development by Frinailla Ltd. (called LadysWell) which recieved permission from CCC but was appealled to ABP with a (favourable??) decision due mid August. Builders/engineers have already been onsite marking out.
The Sean Muillean/ Office development is almost parrallel but on the Blackpool Bypass/ New Mallow Road- big red brick things, almost complete.
🙂 Aaaahh, I love it when I get to start a new page 🙂
@mickeydocs wrote:
Have you not seen the 9 storey office development currently in construction alongside the blackpool retail park and sc?
Yes i have mickey but this is
(a) Not on Watercourse Road, and
(b) mentioned in the same articles as an alternative to the Watercourse road site.
Either the press reports are mistaken, or there is another site on Watercourse road capable of housing the tax office!
Update:
Thanks Lex, I’ve got the general area sorted now alright, but I think most people would call that the New Mallow Road and not Watercourse Road. Is the office development on the city or Mallow side of the apartments?@lisam wrote:
Its now in the lead!!
Woohoo!!
Anybody have anynews on how ABP are leaning as regards Frinailla’s Lady’s Well?
On the subject of Watercourse Road, the press keep mentioning a 20 million Euro Office development there which is in the running for the Revenue re-location (although less so I guess, owing to the news last week).
I’ve still not worked out where exactly they are refering too, despite noble attempts by Lexington to enlighten me. Can anybody shed some light on the subject?As has been mentioned, the Glucksman Gallery is up for the prestigous Stirling Prize in the UK.
You can cast your vote for the Gallery (or any of the other nominated buildings) at the link below to the BBC website.The Glucksman is currently in second place and it would be nice to see Cork Arcitecture honoured across the water- in this of all years. So, you’ve no excuse, GET VOTING and tell your friends to do the same.
Just an update on the new Mardyke Bridge:
Inside Cork quote CCC sources as saying the bridge will not be open to the public until late October at the earliest!!!!! Still waiting for the paths to put in place. And who’s responsible for putting the paths in place?? That’s right you guessed it: CCC.
Anybody hear todays news on one on Radio 1? The Irish Examiner (or as he continued to refer to it: The COrk Examiner 🙂 ) got lambasted by Minister Michael McDowell, and rightly so in my opinion.
But back to architectural matters. Todays Examiner has some splendid images of the proposed new development behind MAhers outdor shop near the Bus station. Importantly they seem to suggest that the old red brick chimney will be preserved. The article also suggest that a planning application will be made in the next few weeks for an office development in the listed building currently occuppied by Mahers.
The development focused on in the article and images looks impressive. Modern but certainly following a form of the listed building to which it is adjacent. The incorporation of the chimney is crucial and I don’t know has it been done to my satisfaction, but that’s a personal opinion.
It is very quiet here. But it is the silly season after all! And Lexington I believe is away sunning himself!
PS regarding Blackpool shopping centre/retail park: It beats Mahon hands down. for diversity of stores, ease of access, and down right Northside charm it comes up thrumps everytime.
There is simple nothing to attract anyone to Mahon for a second visit. The Farmer’s Market is a great idea, but does smack of desperation- trying to make up fior the fact that there isnt a cake shop, bakery, butchers, deli, etc. in Mahon Point (Tesco Aside).
I believe Mahon Management have plumbed for the star clothing retailers and therefore reduced the attractiveness of the centre as an all round shopping experience.
