Little Island residents want more communication with PepsiCo on proposed expansion of site facilities

Little Island residents have criticised a lack of communication from PepsiCo, as the company seeks to significantly expand their facilities.

The proposed development of the production and warehousing consists of a 28m tall building on Clash Road in Little Island.

Prior to the submission of the planning application, there was no consultation with neighbours or the Little Island Community Association, with resident’s spokesperson Hanna Bäckmo explaining, “This is not the first time PepsiCo has done this. 

“Earlier this year, construction started on the Salts Building as part of the PepsiCo development - the first thing we knew about it was when the construction work began.

“When we queried PepsiCo why they had not consulted or informed the neighbours, we were told that they had opted not to hold a public meeting because coming out of Covid, people were afraid to meet in groups.” Ms Bäckmo explained, “PepsiCo is a big employer in the area, but this proposed new development, despite its magnitude, will offer very little in terms of new employment as it is largely a warehouse, residents were told by representatives for the company.

“When pressed further, they were unable to confirm the exact number of new jobs created, or the hours the plant will be operational.” This new building is at least three times the size of the previous development, leaving residents concerned about light and noise pollution, they say, explaining, “We have no trust in the company anymore.” Ms Bäckmo, whose cottage is overlooking the site, explained, “For over three years, I have tried to get PepsiCo to address an outdated ventilation unit on top of their existing facility which is causing a screeching, buzzing noise day and night.

“They have admitted that it is not fit for purpose, but it is still left to operate as is. Up until recently it was running 24/7 causing stress, migraines and sleep issues.

“Since the Construction of the Salts Building began earlier this year, the noise has increased – constant humming noises, beeping trucks, construction noises, alarms both day and night.

“Neighbours have also reported huge levels of dust both outside and in their houses and an infestation of rats as the groundwork to clear the site began.” 

One mother said “I have two young kids and like all kids they love playing outside. When Pepsi cleared the site it got so bad that I just couldn’t leave them out in the back garden to play anymore. There were rats everywhere.” 

If this development goes ahead, it will set a precedent for future developments in the area, where the height of buildings was previously around 18 meters, residents worry.

A spokesperson for PepsiCo told The Echo in response to the issues raised that the company “has submitted a planning application to Cork County Council to expand its existing manufacturing facility in Little Island, Co. Cork.

“PepsiCo currently employs more than 1,250 team members in Ireland. Over 650 of those are based in the Little Island facility, which has been in operation since 1974.

“The proposed expansion will include a multi-level building extension, in addition to associated utilities and access works.” Resident gathered in Little Island Sports Complex at 7pm on Tuesday for a public meeting on the issue, with Ms Bäckmo saying “there was a massive turnout, the hall was full” and explaining that two TDs and three councillors were also in attendance.

“The community is expecting a battle, we’re not expecting this to be over anytime soon,” she said, explaining that the development is likely to go to an objection regardless of the choice made by the council.