A PETITION calling for the protection of historic buildings at the Port of Cork that secured more than 1,500 signatures has been presented to the Lord Mayor of Cork city.

The Port of Cork site was purchased by New York-based Irish developers, Kevin and Donal O’Sullivan, who have plans for a €100m development, including a 40-storey skyscraper.

The three acres contain the historic Port of Cork buildings, and while the development will include office space and a hotel, there are no plans to knock the protected buildings which were constructed during the Napoleonic Wars by the prisoners of Spike Island.

However, Cobh-based artist John Adams, has said the development will see Cork lose its character. He said he is not against modern buildings, but he is not in favour of them being constructed on such historic sites. “These are the most historical, prominent, visually beautiful buildings in Cork City.

“They are in such an important piece of strategic land in the centre of the city and on the historic waterfront,” he added.

“They have the possibility to make this city very special.

“These are a unique set of buildings and part of our cultural and historical maritime heritage — of international interest. If this huge development goes ahead the character of Cork will be lost forever.”