Locals call on Cork City Council to avoid development on Murphy's Rock

NORTHSIDE residents have urged Cork City Council to avoid developing on Murphy’s Rock.

The green area has been used as an amenity by people from all across the northside, especially Blackpool, Ballyvolane and Dublin Hill residents for generations.

The Glenamought River Valley Park is considered amongst the top tier of blue and green infrastructure for the city, according to the Cork City Development Plan.

The plan established that the Glenamought River Valley Park is a key green and blue infrastructure asset that must be safeguarded in its function as a linear wildlife corridor and riverside amenity.

Green Party councillor for Cork City North-East, Oliver Moran said that residents are against development in the area.

“An application by the GAA to develop housing immediately next to Murphy’s Rock last year was turned down after the identification of protected species, including rare butterflies.

“That proposal was very close to the valley but, a litter further away, next to Dublin Hill, is land zoned for development by the Land Development Agency. That’s more promising for protecting the site than if it was a private developer, and they have already met with residents, but it is still a concern for the community.”

The Development Plan cites that it will “safeguard access to the riverside, protect biodiversity and preserve this ecological and visually sensitive asset.” Further consideration will be given to existing historic, cultural and social landmarks and their integration into any enhanced future riverside park.

Locals wish to keep Murphy’s Rock as an amenity, as it is one of the few green areas left in the northside.

“I’ve received assurances that if they were to propose developing in the area, they would masterplan with the community. However, that’s when a conflict will emerge over the vision for the wider Murphy’s Rock area. The community’s wish is to keep it as an amenity, including for families in new housing being built now on Dublin Hill, in Blackpool and on Ballyhooly Road,” Mr Moran added.

Chairperson of Murphy’s Rock and Bride Valley Support Group in Kilcully, Joan Lewis said that many people are “passionate about Murphy’s Rock,” and they “always have been”.

ICE AGE

“Murphy’s Rock has been there since the Ice Age and down through the generations it has been used an amenity.

“People from Blackpool, Faranree, Whitechurch, Carrignavar and the wider areas have used Murphy’s Rock. We have so many great memories here [Murphy’s Rock], and we need to keep it for future generations,” she said.

Cllr Moran believes a biodiversity audit on the valley to take place to establish its importance.

The group is set to met with Grace O’Sullivan MEP to establish importance at a European and national level.

“There are other designations that could be sought too, including at European and national level, and the community are meeting with Grace O’Sullivan on exploring that also,” Mr Moran said.