Potential of Cork's historic Shandon area 'not been reached'

The Shandon Integrated Urban Strategy agreed at last Monday night’s meeting of Cork City Council has been welcomed by councillors.

Chief executive Valerie O’Sullivan explained that the strategy is the first undertaken by Cork City Council in line with the innovative ‘Town Centre First’ methodology and “presents a significant opportunity” to position Shandon for the future as a more attractive, vibrant and resilient living neighbourhood within Cork city centre at the northern end of its historic medieval spine.

Actions

“34 actions are identified ranging from small to larger scale interventions, covering areas such as historic property reactivation, public realm enhancement, sustainable travel and business supports, all informed by a comprehensive appraisal of Shandon’s special historic character and coordinated with Cork City’s Council range of relevant local strategies,” said Ms O’Sullivan.

“Among the actions, three key strategic regeneration proposals have been locally selected to play a central role in delivering on objectives and maximising regenerative impact for the area.

“The strategy will be utilised as a resource for all stakeholders and to support funding applications for the actions identified in order to deliver tangible results over the coming years.

“We look forward to working in partnership to drive the development of Shandon and build it as destination of choice with wide ranging appeal for residents and visitors alike.”

The initiative was welcomed by local Fianna Fáil councillor Tony Fitzgerald, who paid tribute to the council, the Shandon Neighbourhood Team and the consultancy team who had undertaken an extensive public consultation process.

Shared vision

“This represents a shared vision and a great opportunity to support private investment and funding applications for projects and activities over the next number of years covering areas such as historic property activation, public realm enhancement, sustainable travel, business and community supports all around the Shandon area,” commented Mr Fitzgerald.

“I wish the project every success and I am happy to support the proposal hoping that it will be successfully funded,” he added.

Also welcoming the plans, Independent councillor Kieran McCarthy said the consultation process was meaningful.

“You can feel the local people’s voices and their needs within the strategy,” said Mr McCarthy.

“It is very clear though that the potential of the Shandon area has not been reached —hence the creation of this strategy.

Frustrating

“There have been successful and positive piecemeal interventions especially in terms of restoration of historic properties and conversion into private and social housing.

“It has been frustrating not to see the historic Butter Market Exchange getting up and running, despite all the work in recent years,” he added.

“It is clear that the church tower of Shandon needs serious restoration and not just the clock section, but the whole tower.

“There needs to be a lot more planning for the future conservation of this significant historic building between Cork City Council and the Church of Ireland.”

Mr McCarthy said he like to see “Shandon’s story, its soul, its identity” promoted more, and derelict buildings turned around for use.

“The strategy needs to be implemented. Otherwise all the great consultation work will be undermined,” he said.