Potential for 300 homes as LDA and BnM agree transfer of Cork Docklands site

The Land Development Agency (LDA) and BnM have completed the transfer of a major Cork Docklands site that could deliver up to 300 new affordable homes, marking another significant step in the redevelopment of the city’s waterfront. The agreement sees approximately 2.08 hectares (five acres) at Monahan Road transferred from BnM to the LDA following several years of engagement between the two state bodies and Cork City Council. The site, which is no longer in active use by BnM, is viewed as strategically important due to its proximity to Cork city centre, Marina Park and planned public transport infrastructure, including the proposed Cork Luas route. Transport Infrastructure Ireland recently confirmed its preferred route for the light rail project, with planned Docklands and Páirc Uí Chaoimh stops located close to the development site. The proposed Luas line is also expected to run directly in front of the Monahan Road lands, adding to the area’s long-term development potential. Part of the site will also facilitate Cork City Council road widening works aimed at improving connectivity along Monahan Road, including additional bus and cycle lanes. The LDA said it will now move to appoint a design team to prepare a planning application for the scheme, which is expected to consist of A-rated affordable homes. The project adds to a growing pipeline of LDA-backed housing developments across Cork. The agency currently has close to 1,400 homes either under construction or progressing through planning in the city. In Cork Docklands, the LDA is partnering with Glenveagh on the Marina Depot development, where 337 homes are under construction opposite the Monahan Road site. A further 302 apartments are being developed at Horgan’s Quay in partnership with BAM and Clarendon Properties. Elsewhere in Cork, the agency is delivering 267 homes at the former St Kevin’s Hospital site in Shanakiel, while planning permission has also been secured for 345 homes on former ESB lands in Wilton and 147 homes at Anglesea Terrace in partnership with Cork City Council. LDA chief executive John Coleman described the land transfer as “an important milestone” in unlocking state-owned land for housing delivery. “This site has the potential to deliver high-quality, sustainable homes in the heart of Cork Docklands, a key growth area for the city,” he said. “We are pleased to have worked collaboratively with BnM, Cork City Council and other stakeholders to reach this point, and we look forward to progressing a planning application and advancing delivery in due course.” BnM chief executive Tom Donnellan said the agreement aligned with the company’s broader strategic focus. Tom Donnellan CEO of BnM. “As part of our renewed focus, we are pleased to work with the Land Development Agency to deliver a positive outcome for this strategically located site on Monahan Road,” he said. “We look forward to its transformation into much-needed homes supporting Cork City’s growth.” Cork City Council chief executive Valerie O’Sullivan said the transfer represented “a very welcome step forward” for both housing delivery and the continued development of Cork Docklands

View Original Article