'It’s a real shame to be left empty like this': Owner of old post office on Cork's northside sought

Cork City Council is appealing for help to locate the owner of the former post office at St Luke’s, which has been vacant for 17 years, as a councillor says it is “a sin” for it to remain empty.

A notice has been hung on the door by the council, explaining that it would like to speak with the owner to “discuss the removal of dereliction”, adding that the council “would prefer to work with the property owner to bring this derelict property back into use”.

It explained that the council “can take action through a compulsory acquisition process, where all other options have been exhausted and where Cork City Council consider action is required in the common good to bring the property back into use”.

The former post office closed in August 2008, when postmistress Sheila O’Flaherty retired after 28 years and the post office moved across the road to a former Ladbrokes office.

Green Party councillor for the area, Oliver Moran, told The Echo: “It’s a real shame for such a brilliant location to be left empty like this.

“St Luke’s Cross is the example of the 15-minute city in Cork.

“There’s a vibrant economy between the businesses on the cross and people living overhead. Having a property like this kept derelict is a sin.

“Even if the owners don’t want to do anything with it, there are people around who would,” he said, adding that locals have suggested a community gallery.

A Cork City Council spokesperson told The Echo: “37 Saint Luke’s Cross, the former post office, is currently under investigation for potential placement on the Derelict Sites Register (file number 1891), with ownership checks under way.”

If you are the owner, or know who the owner is, you can contact the Derelict Sites Unit at DerelictSites@corkcity.ie or phone 021 4924000.