1,000 homes set for former Dulux Paints site in Blackpool

THE former Dulux Paints factory site in Blackpool, Cork city, is to be redeveloped following its acquisition by the Hallmark Developments-linked Reside Group, in a deal valued at €10m.

The 14-acre site, one of the city’s best-known industrial landmarks, was bought off-market just before Christmas.

The deal paves the way for a mixed-use scheme of up to 1,000 homes, opposite McDonalds on Commons Rd.

Speaking to The Echo, Kieran Flynn, director, Reside Group, an affiliate of Hallmark Developments, said the acquisition “marks an exciting new chapter as this prominent gateway location is reimagined as a vibrant, high-quality residential community”.

“This is more than a residential project: It is a landmark regeneration that will finally give Blackpool and Commons Rd the gateway development it has long deserved.”

He hopes to break ground “in 18 to 24 months”, with units delivered on a phased basis, about 200 per phase.

Mr Flynn said there will be “a strong emphasis on cost-rental and affordable purchase options to meet the pressing housing needs of Cork families, workers, and first-time buyers”.

Homes will be available through private sale, with other options possible, depending on future delivery partners, such as approved housing bodies or the Land Development Agency.

The development will also include “carefully curated commercial, community, and amenity spaces”, which Mr Flynn said “will create a genuine sense of belonging and pride of place for local residents”. Mr Flynn said traffic and transportation “form a central pillar of the design assessment”.

He said: 

“We are acutely aware that a large-scale development in this location must prioritise sustainable, active-travel options.

“In this regard, the opening of Blackpool train station, together with the existing bus stops located directly outside the site, offer a unique opportunity to achieve meaningful modal shift and a significant reduction in car dependency.”