Proposals for Cork docklands regeneration project published
A major strategy has been published to guide the delivery of the vast new public realm, roads, parks and cultural spaces required for Cork's docklands— Ireland's largest urban regeneration site.
However, concerns have already been raised about the potential impact of three proposed bridges, and several new roads the framework plan says are needed in the south docks.
Fine Gael Cllr Des Cahill said more research is required before councillors vote on whether to stitch the new framework into the city development plan (CDP).
'What is missing, and what I have asked for, is a river use feasibility study to gauge the impact these bridges could have on how we currently use the river,' he said.
'Three new bridges are proposed — the Luas light rail bridge from Kent Station to Kennedy Quay and the Eastern Gateway bridge near Páirc Uí Chaoimh — but now there is an additional pedestrian and cycle bridge proposed. I have fears these bridges could sterilise the river.
'I just think we need to pause, I think we need to take a breath here and do a bit more work, because we won't get a second bite at this.'
The docklands has capacity for up to 10,000 new homes and could be the base for up to 25,000 jobs. Walking, active travel, and public transport will be the dominant form of travel in the region.
Cork City Council and the Cork Docklands Delivery Office published the Cork Docklands Framework Plan on Wednesday for public consultation.
The 200-page document sets out in great detail the guiding policies and suggested location of the expansive public realm and waterside amenities, new pocket and linear parks, as well as the travel, sports and community infrastructure needed to unlock the massive development capacity of the 147-hectare region.
They have identified the need for more sports pitches, for a community hub combining a library, community centre, indoor sports facilities, primary care and youth facilities, and for improved river access and recreation across the waterfront.
The Lord Mayor, Cllr Dan Boyle, said there have been many plans and conversations over the years about the regeneration of Cork docklands.
'It is exciting to be at a point where the delivery is becoming reality,' he said. 'With the newly upgraded Marina Promenade and the final phase of Marina Park moving towards completion, the required public infrastructure is visibly developing, and this plan can deliver an equally exciting world class urban living district.'
Council chief executive, Valerie O'Sullivan, said the regeneration of docklands will be transformational for the city and with 6,000 people employed and 640 new homes under construction, it is already happening.
But the framework requires a proposed variation to the CDP before it can be implemented. If it is adopted by city councillors in June, the framework will form a new volume of the CDP 2022-2028.
The proposed variation is open for public consultation until May 28, with open days taking place at the Clayton Hotel, Lapps Quay on May 7 and at Millennium Hall, City Hall on May 14.
You can view an interactive Cork Docklands StoryMap here.
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