Plans lodged for 170-unit residential development in Cork city

An application for a large scale residential development (LRD), consisting of more than 170 residential units, at the former Ford Distribution site, has been lodged with Cork City Council.

The plans, submitted by Marina Quarter Limited, seek to construct 176 apartment units, comprising of a mix of one-, two-, and three-bed units in two blocks, ranging in height from seven to 10 storeys over podium level, at a brownfield site fronting on to the Centre Park Rd in Ballintemple.

The application is also seeking to construct a range of amenities to complement the development, including a 35-place creche, a gym, and a retail and cafe unit.

Permission is further being sought for development works, including new vehicular and pedestrian access; which would be located at the site’s western boundary; footpaths and cycle lanes, landscaping, amenity and open space areas, boundary treatments, bicycle and car parking; including 56 car parking spaces, and 427 bicycle parking spaces; bin storage, public lighting and all other ancillary works.

As per the infrastructure design report, which was submitted alongside the application, the total parking provision on site aligns with Cork City Development Plan (2022-2028) plans for the City Docklands area which aims to “prioritise walking, cycling and public transport over other modes.” According to other documents submitted alongside the application, the proposed development would be located adjacent to the Marina Quarter SHD scheme, which is also located on the grounds of the former Ford Distribution site.

This scheme is “holistically designed” to create a new urban neighbourhood in the area, complete with services and amenities.

The adjacent SHD achieved planning permission for construction of more than 1,000 apartments, development amenities and associated site works, in 2020 and has recently commenced works on site.

Submissions from the public to raise concerns or objections in relation to the application will be accepted until January 20.

Cork City Council is due to make a decision on the plans by early February.