Cork pub complex sets new record with €5m-plus sale and big plans for future
The high-profile site went on the market with a €5.3 million price tag It was the end of an era when the Flying Enterprise on Cork's southside was put up for sale earlier this year - but now there are plans for an exciting new future as a the sprawling complex finds a buyer, in the biggest sale of its kind in Munster this year.The Flying Enterprise complex on Barrack Street, which includes the Courtyard on Sober Lane as well as shop space and five apartments, was put on the market for €5.3 million in February when publican Finnbarr O'Shea and wife Dolly took their well-deserved retirement. Now a Cork consortium backed by international investors has purchased the property, with plans to continue trading and keep staff on - as well as further exciting developments in the works.It's understood the plans could include revamped restaurant and accommodation spots in the heart of the city, including a transformation for the part of the old Sullivans Quay School that fronts onto the river, which is currently used only for storage. As well as the Courtyard and apartments, the complex also encompasses Quay News, a deli, newsagent and off licence.Finbarr O'Shea and his family built up a thriving business over the years, and stepped in to make use of the old 'Sullie's Quay' school when it closed in 2006. The school could have fallen into disuse - but an imaginative plan to use the old playground and central courtyard as a beer garden saw the complex find a new role in the heart of the South Parish.The Flying Enterprise lounge, restaurant and Quay News on Barrack StreetThe outdoor bar was named the best outdoor pub space at the prestigious Irish Pub Awards in 2019 and the Flying Enterprise lounge and restaurant has silverware from the Better Building Awards Pub Frontage 2010. Regulars at the popular spot will be glad to learn that the space will continue life as a buzzing beer garden, while upcoming developments around the site signal more regeneration ahead for an area that has already seen major changes in recent months, including new bridges and public realm works on South Main Street.One of those bridges opened earlier to the public this month, as hoardings were dropped on the redesigned Bishop Lucey Park. The new layout allows pedestrians on Grand Parade to pass through the Park and across the new bridge between Lambley’s Lane (off South Main Street) and Wandesford Quay.Chief Executive of Cork City Council Valerie O’Sullivan said: “The opening of the park and the new bridge, combined with the public realm upgrades in and around South Main Street, marks a significant milestone in the transformation of this historic area that will enhance connectivity, encourage footfall, and foster a stronger sense of community, delivering long-term benefits for residents, businesses, and visitors.”With the new owners of the Flying Enterprise intending to keep business hopping, and with regeneration in the area starting to bear fruit, it's proving an exciting time to live, work and hang out in Cork city's South Parish.
