All About Cork: Former lord mayor critical of redevelopment delays

Fifteen years after first raising the issue, and almost two years on from site visits by councillors and city council management, a former lord mayor has expressed frustration that costings and designs for the redevelopment of the Noonan’s Road flats have yet to be presented.

Former councillor for Cork South Central, Mick Finn, says he is still keeping tabs on something he proposed to three city managers during his time on council and an issue he wants to see resolved.

“I first included the flat complexes on Noonan’s Road, Finbarr’s Road, Dean Street, and Fort [Street] on a list for rejuvenation works to the then city manager, Joe Gavin in 2009, then Tim Lucey, and Ann Doherty,” Mr Finn explained.

“Following a site visit with council management in the summer of 2023, I was hopeful of action and a new direction for the area, but it still seems to be some way off.

“I do note that 70% of the residents in Noonan Road have been transferred out, with moves to accommodate the remainder.

“I also see that the demolition work is going to tender and a Part 8 planning application for works on the site will be made shortly.

“What concerns me is that there is no news of funding in place yet and no master plan has been issued,” he added.

“I would hope the current councillors in the local electoral area will progress that as a matter of urgency.”

Mr Finn said that once the major work starts on Noonan Road, there should be a ripple effect in the other areas.

“Just because I’m no longer on the council doesn’t mean I don’t have an interest in my area,” he said. “Hopefully, things can start moving in earnest in 2025.”

A spokesperson for Cork City Council said: “The proposed regeneration of the Noonan’s Road and surrounding flat complexes is being treated with priority by Cork City Council, and to support this process, a programme of engagement with local residents has been progressing well, with a view to the relocation of residents on a phased basis to alternative accommodation.

“The relocation of residents is required to be completed prior to undertaking any necessary site demolition works, as well as the site investigation works that are a prerequisite for our due diligence process in the design of any new development.

“In parallel with the relocation process outlined above, the Housing Delivery and Regeneration team are progressing the first-stage funding application (feasibility stage) for this high priority regeneration project, to be submitted to the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage in Q1 of 2025.

“The project is on programme, and as noted is reliant on the careful relocation of all existing residents.

“It is premature to have any informed discussion on site complexities, costings and detailed design.”

Local health initiative

A local health initiative for women hosted an introduction to mindfulness earlier this month as part of its ongoing series of workshops.

A community-led initiative focused on women’s health and menopause, the Change Cafe was launched in the Ballyphehane Community Centre last summer.

The Change Cafe runs seminars on the second Tuesday of every month from 7pm to 9pm, and features talks and workshops given by experts in the area of women’s health and menopause.

Earlier this month, Blanca Pages from Elephant Mindfulness provided an introduction to mindfulness for Change Cafe attendees. A spokesperson described the event as a “lovely, relaxing night”.

“We learned all about managing our stress levels, just minding ourselves, and practicing the new skills learned in everyday life.” The next Change Cafe event will take place on Tuesday, March 4.

Tidy Towns tackle dog fouling

Two new dog fouling bins have been installed in Ballyphehane thanks to the local tidy towns group.

Ballyphehane Tidy Towns installed a bin on Tramore Road and another at Coláiste Éamann Rís, with the help of Cork City Council.

In a statement, the group said: “We’ve added two new dog poop bins to help keep our community clean.

“A huge thank you to Cork City Council Cork City Parks Sport and Recreation for sponsoring these bins through the Community Enhancement Scheme 2024.

“Our team will be maintaining them throughout the year to ensure they stay in top condition.

“We hope this will help reduce dog fouling on our streets and paths – but we need your help too,” Ballyphehane Tidy Towns added.

“Please remember to bag it and bin it to keep Ballyphehane clean and green!”

In a separate statement, the group expressed its disappointment after one dog did its business in a tidy towns’ flower planter.

“There’s a bin just a few steps away – please be responsible and clean up after your pets.”

School installs solar panel

Solar panels have been installed at a local primary school as part of the Government’s photovoltaic programme for schools.

The provision of up to 6kWp photovoltaic (PV) panels to schools — to be funded from the Climate Action Fund at the discretion of the minister for the environment, climate, and communications — was announced in September 2022, and an initial pilot phase commenced in November 2023.

Morning Star National School revealed this month that solar panels were to be installed at the school.

In a statement, school management said: “We hope that this will translate to real savings for us over the next few years, as energy bills have been incredibly difficult to afford — especially over the past few winters.”

€70k to fix band premises roof

Some €70,000 has been announced for a replacement roof at the Barrack St Brass Band’s premises, coming as part of a €1.2m allocation for community projects across Cork.

The funding, made available through the Community Recognition Fund, will see investment in a range of projects and will include upgrades and enhancements to sports facilities, community centres, parks, walking trails, and playgrounds.

The funding allocations were announced by Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central Jerry Buttimer, whose portfolio as minister of state at the Department of Rural and Community Development includes special responsibility for community development and charities.

Headline allocations in Cork city include €150,000 for the development of a Foróige youth centre and café on MacCurtain St; €120,000 for remedial building works to the South Parish Community Centre; €83,740 for the Inishmore playground in Ballincollig; and €70,000 for a replacement roof at the Barrack St Brass Band’s premises.

Local quiz night for charity

Ballyphehane Celtic is hosting a quiz night in aid of the Irish Sepsis Foundation on March 1.

The event will take place at Ma Dullea’s from 8.30pm, with all proceeds going towards the Irish Sepsis Foundation.

In a statement, Ballyphehane Celtic said: “Join us for a night of fun, laughter, and friendly competition at our quiz night, hosted by the brilliant Patrick Ahern Entertainment!

“Teams can range from two to six people, so grab your crew and put your knowledge to the test.” 

Tickets for the quiz are available via Stripe.

“All proceeds go to the Irish Sepsis Foundation, supporting their vital work in raising awareness about sepsis, a condition that can affect anyone,” the club added.

“As a club, Ballyphehane Celtic is proud to stand behind causes like this. Supporting the fight against sepsis is crucial, and we’re committed to spreading awareness and making a difference.

“On the night, you’ll also learn about sepsis warning signs and ways to protect yourself. With plenty of prizes on offer and a fantastic atmosphere, this is more than just a quiz night - it’s a chance to come together as a community and support a life-saving cause.

“Get your team together and book your tickets today! Don’t miss this amazing event for a cause that truly matters.”

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