€7.5m enhancement of English Market among 12 Cork projects to receive funding boost 

Almost €40m has been allocated to 12 projects across Cork under the Government's “game-changer” Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund.

The funding, announced by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne, comes as part of a wider €409m package aimed at the redevelopment and regeneration of vacant or underused sites, public realm enhancements, and community and civic infrastructure.

The fund will support policies such as the ‘Town Centre First’ initiative and seeks to focus funding in disadvantaged areas.

Under the scheme, a total of €39.85m was allocated to projects in Cork.

Projects that have seen the largest investment across Cork include the regeneration and enhancement of the English Market, the Public Realm Enhancement Scheme for Douglas St in Cork city, phase one of the Cobh Public Realm Regeneration Scheme, and the regeneration of the Mallow Town Hall.

Each project was allocated a total of €7.5m, making up the majority of funding set aside for Cork-based initiatives.

A further €5m was allocated to the regeneration of the Blarney Civic Centre, and €3.5m was allocated to phase one of the Carrigaline Public Realm and Waterfront Development Project.

Other projects awarded funding in Cork include the Cook St, Marlboro St, Princes St, Grafton St and Rochford’s Lane Renewal Scheme (CMPGR), the North Main St Renewal Strategy, the Douglas Village Renewal Strategy, the Proposed Masterplan for Carrigtwohill Town Centre, phase one of the Clonakilty Kent St Regeneration Scheme, and the Midleton Cultural and Civic Centre, all of which were allocated €150,000 each.

Fine Gael Cork South Central TD, Jerry Buttimer said as a minister from Cork, he is “delighted that we as a government are investing in Cork, both in the city and in the regions".

“It is imperative that we continue to grow and develop Cork city, and up to €7.5m for the regeneration and enhancement of the English market is an exciting one,” said Mr Buttimer.

“This is a significant investment, and I am delighted that we will see under this government better public spaces, enhanced public realm, and stronger towns and village centres – something that many people have been crying out for.

“The focus now will be on getting these projects moving and delivering that investment on the ground.” 

Fianna Fáil Cork East TD, James O’Connor said this investment will “help unlock regeneration, support new development, and make a difference for the people who live, work and raise their families in these communities”.

“This has the potential to be a game-changer for the projects involved and for the communities they serve,” said Mr O’Connor.

“This funding will have a significant and lasting impact on communities across Cork East, and I look forward to seeing these projects progress.”