HERITAGE body An Taisce has lodged a planning objection opposing a new development in the heart of Cork city saying it would have a negative impact on the city’s skyline.

The Prism, a €20 million glass-fronted building 15 storeys high, is planned for a small triangular site next to the Parnell Place bus station.

Kerrymen, Kevin and Donal O’Sullivan recently purchased the site on Clontarf Street that has remained unused for decades.

Tower Holdings Group, owned by Kevin O’Sullivan, will oversee the development of the proposed new office building.

The O’Sullivan brothers have also acquired the Port of Cork Customs House Quay site at the eastern end of the city centre island where they are planning another skyscraper.

The planning application for The Prism was lodged last month. It has already received the support of the Cork Business Association and the Cork Chamber.

However, An Taisce says a tall building on Clontarf Street would not be in accordance with the height guidelines in the Cork City Development Plan (CCDP).

“The building will significantly alter the vista from Morrison’s Island of the former Cork Savings Bank, one of its finest Georgian era building and seriously compromise the downriver vistas from this location,” An Taisce said.

“A structure of this kind will be the dominant feature on the east of the island when viewed from many parts of the wider city.”

An Taisce said the City Development Plan makes it clear that tall buildings should be located in the Docklands and in South Mahon and should be resisted in areas of special or significant character in the city.

“While supportive of continued regeneration of the city centre, we strongly object to a 15-storey building on Clontarf Street,” An Taisce added.

In their submission, the Cork Business Association said The Prism has the potential to transform an area of the city that has been neglected for many years and is in need of regeneration.

The Cork Chamber also supports the development saying The Prism will add vibrancy to the city by energising a currently unused site.

A decision on the development is expected next month, however planners can request further information on the project.