Derelict site by The Lough set for new lease of life

A derelict property in The Lough which was entered onto the city’s derelict sites register almost 12 years ago looks set for a new lease of life.

Cork City Council has published plans for the redevelopment of a property in its ownership at 38 Gould Street.

The property, in close proximity to Church of the Immaculate Conception, was entered onto the city’s derelict sites register in December 2012.

The local authority has now published plans for its redevelopment, proposing the partial demolition, extension and renovation of the existing mid terrace house to provide a two-bedroom, two-storey unit. A design statement prepared by Kenneth Hennessy Architects Ltd on behalf of the council said that the original proposal for the site was amended following discussion with the council’s conservation officer.

“The original proposal involved the complete demolition of the property located at 38 Gould Street, but after much consideration and discussion with the council’s conservation officer, it is proposed to retain the existing front elevation of the current property, and to extend behind and above it,” the design statement said. “Many of the properties in the vicinity of the site have also been extensively altered and extended.

“It is proposed to retain the existing front façade of the current property, to preserve the visual character of the street, and to extend behind and above the façade to provide a new, two-storey, two-bed dwelling.

“The existing façade will be retained with any necessary repair work undertaken to tie it into the proposed dwelling.”

It further stated that the proposed development has been designed “to best integrate with its surrounding environment”.

“It is envisaged that, by redeveloping a currently vacant and derelict property with a carefully designed refurbishment and extension, there will be a positive impact on the aesthetic character of the area and that the development will be a positive and welcome addition to the community,” the statement concludes.

Plans and particulars of the proposed development are available to view until October 18. See consult.corkcity.ie/en for more.