Call to turn north Cork hospital land into wildlife conservation site

A Cork TD is urging the Government to preserve the Heatherside Hospital site in Doneraile for wildlife conservation and biodiversity purposes.

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea is calling on the Government, through the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), to take the opportunity presented to them and acquire the historic site.

Built in 1909 as a sanitorium for tuberculosis (TB) patients, Heatherside Hospital also operated as a mental health facility until it was permanently closed in 2010.

Heatherside Hospital lies on over twenty acres of land in the Ballyhoura area of North Cork. Despite its historic significance, the buildings on the site have fallen into serious disrepair after its closure almost 15 years ago.

Mr O’Shea said it is important to consider how Heathside can be utilised now and going forward. He added that with a proactive investment from the NPWS, the land could be revitalised to nurture and expand habitats for endangered species.

“There has been many discussions thrown out there to see how Heatherside could be used in the future. However, one common theme is coming back from all of these discussions. The refurbishment of the facility is cost prohibitive, and the location is too remote. So, we must think outside the box and see how we can still make sure Heatherside serves us now and into the future.

“We have a unique opportunity here not just to preserve, but to actively support our ecosystems for future generations. Much of the lands surrounding the hospital is already planted and can only benefit from agencies like the NPWS looking after it into the future.

“I am asking that the NPWS would step in here and acquire Heatherside now and ensure this site becomes a new sanitorium, not for humans this time but for our wildlife.” 

Mr O’Shea added: “This is why I want to highlight the sites already rich biodiversity status and its potential to serve as a sanctuary for wildlife and protected species.

“It served our most vulnerable humans for many years. I think it is now time for Heatherside to serve our most vulnerable wildlife and the environment.”