Documents submitted detailing plans for former Roches Stores

The owners of the former Roches Stores and Debenhams building in Cork city centre have submitted further documentation to the local authority detailing their plans to renovate the iconic premises.

Following a request from Cork City Council, seeking further information in relation to several issues, documentation was provided this month to planners at City Hall on behalf of the Staunton family, who also own and operate the Elvery’s Intersport retail chain.

The Mayo-based family purchased the premises in 2023 for €12 million.

Clarifications outlined spanned a number of concerns including the provision of external signage; installation of rooftop solar panels; internal and external design of the building; and the reinstatement of a pedestrian link to the Merchant's Quay Shopping Centre.

Conservation of the historic building and its facade were the main concern for planners, with clarification needed on the intended shopfront designs, shopfront signage and materials, and how they would align with the existing 20th-century style.

Documents were submitted by conservation specialists at John Cronin & Associates which outlined the nature of future gates and shutters that would be used.

The documents also outlined that access to the Merchant’s Quay Shopping Centre may be reinstated under plans for the next phase of development.

In a masterplan document, submitted alongside the planning application in July, the owners highlighted an intention to incorporate additional uses in future phases of the development including provisions for a gym, supermarket, workspaces, food and beverage spaces, a hotel or residential units.

Cork City Council is due to make a decision on the application by December 15.