NEW images have been released of one of the largest integrated office, residential and hotel developments ever undertaken in the city.

The new updated images give a more clear idea of the aesthetics of the project which is being progressed along Cork’s north docklands and will feature almost 27,000 square metres of office space, over 300 apartments, a 120-bed boutique hotel with rooftop bar and restaurant, 6,000 square metres of new public realm with direct Kent train station access and shops and restaurants.

It is being undertaken in a phased development and will be delivered as part of the HQ Horgan’s Quay joint-venture project involving BAM and Clarendon Properties.

A website and LinkedIn profile promoting the developments have also been launched.

The developers say the hotel will be operated by a hotel brand best-known for its “Brooklyn vibes” and it will be an “unintegrated” part of the office blocks. There is also a large residential element to the scheme.

As part of their original planning HQ application to Cork City Council, HQ Developments secured planning for 216 apartments in the resident element. But they sought to increase this number to 302 residential units, along with ground-floor retail and a creche.

Official confirmation was given last month that permission has been granted for the increased apartment phase of the development subject to a number of conditions including a financial contribution for public infrastructure and facilities benefiting development in the area.

The apartment blocks will be built around an open courtyard centred around the former Station Master’s building. The scheme varies in height from seven storeys to 11 storeys. Building work could start early next year on the apartment scheme facing Horgan’s Quay and Railway Street.

Work on what will become The Dean Hotel Cork, overlooking the city’s train station, and the office element, overlooking the River Lee, is well advanced. In relation to the office developments, Clarendon Properties said: “Situated next to the Port of Cork, Horgan’s Quay is an upcoming development of office buildings that boasts magnificent panoramic views of the River Lee and the city centre. 

The floor-to-ceiling glazing design takes full advantage of this strategic location and allows maximum natural daylight for your employees. Take advantage of this stunning and unrivalled office backdrop that is situated near all the necessary amenities and travel options that an office requires.

“The upcoming office blocks at Horgan’s Quay will focus on conserving Cork’s industrial heritage, whilst offering a modern and convenient solution for global businesses looking to expand or relocate.

“Horgan’s Quay is the ideal spot for those who need easy access to bus, car, train, sea and air links. Adding to the list of benefits, Horgan’s Quay includes a transport hub with on-site access to the nearby Kent train station, bus routes and bike depots.”