Potential for more than 1,000 student beds to be green-lit in Cork this year

Early discussions are taking place surrounding the possibility of yet another student development in Cork city.

Bellmount Developments Limited are at pre-application consultation phase with An Bord Pleanála currently, with a view to providing 265-bed spaces in the Bishopstown area.

The pre-application consultation is a required step for those who wish to apply for planning permission for a Strategic Housing Development (SHD) with the board.

Discussions between the developers and the board often result in some changes to the original plans, and updated plans can then be submitted under the fast-track SHD scheme.

This proposal will be set for Wilton Road, Victoria Cross, Bishopstown, if given the go-ahead to move to the next phase of application, which would also see the demolition of the existing structures on site.

An Bord Pleanála are due to rule on whether the development can proceed to formal application stage by the end of October.

This comes as the Bandon Road student development, which will overlook The Lough, has been given the go-ahead to increase in size to 550-bed spaces. Lyonshall have increased the number of bed spaces in that development twice - this time after acquiring additional land.

Separate from those already green-lit, but including Bellmount Developments' potential proposals, there is the potential that more than 1,000 student bed spaces will be green-lit in Cork before Christmas.

Bmor Developments Ltd are seeking permission for 49 student apartments with 279-beds, as well as two retail units and a cafe/restaurant at 92-96 North Main Street, which incorporates the old Munster Furniture site. A decision is due on that development in early November.

Early October is the date set for a decision on plans for a 280-bed student development in 50 units, at the former Square Deal Premises on Washington Street by IRE Real Estate Investment Partners Fund II.

In July, a formal application was made by Denis O’Brien Developments (Cork) Ltd for a 216-bed student development at San Paula, Orchard Road, Cork City. A decision is due in mid-October.