Plans submitted to build more than 1,000 new homes in Cork town

Plans to construct more than 1,000 new homes in Ballincollig have been met with a “guarded welcome” as locals hope to see sufficient infrastructure implemented to serve the development.

The application, lodged by the O’Flynn Group, seeks to construct a large scale residential development (LRD) at Maglin in Ballincollig.

The development, consisting of a mix of 1,150 new homes, will additionally see the construction of a childcare facility and retail area.

The plans for the development have been described by the applicant as “all carefully and sensitively designed to meet the diverse housing needs of the local community”.

The LRD includes a mix of houses, duplex units, and apartments, distributed across four distinct character areas within a 28-hectare site.

The developers have said that this proposed scheme will deliver “much-needed housing on lands long identified by both Cork County Council and, more recently, Cork City Council, as a key residential growth area to South Ballincollig”.

The development will also provide for open communal spaces, which have been designed to “encourage social interaction, active living, and well-being among residents".

Speaking to The Echo, Ballincollig native and Fianna Fáil councillor for the Cork City South West ward, Colm Kelleher said:

“I broadly welcome new housing to the area; we are in the middle of a housing crisis,” said Mr Kelleher.

“We need to have the infrastructure to cater for it, like water, roads and footpaths, but also any application that's brought, should be keeping in with the general area.

“I haven’t seen this application in detail, I’m looking forward to reviewing it, but it has to be done in keeping with the area, so the infrastructure can cope with it.

“With the growth that is forecast for Ballincollig over the next number of years, I would say that a guarded welcome is how I would look at it.” 

 Michael O’Flynn, chairman and CEO of the O’Flynn Group, said this application “marks a significant step forward in the development of this key residential growth area”.

“Its location offers excellent access to major transport links, enhancing connectivity with Cork city and the wider region,” said Mr O’Flynn.

“The development will also deliver important infrastructure, including cycle lanes, footpaths, bus lanes, and a new road carriageway, ensuring strong and sustainable transport connections.

“We are delighted to bring high-quality, modern homes and vibrant places to live to Maglin," he added.

“Our design team has worked very closely with Cork City Council and other stakeholders to ensure our plans reflect and respond to the needs of the community and to the demand for housing.”