Cork Housing Project: 170 Homes planned for Former Vita Cortex Site
Table of Contents
- Cork Housing Project: 170 Homes planned for Former Vita Cortex Site
- Details of the Proposed Housing Development
- Sustainable Transportation and Parking
- Additional Features and Infrastructure
- Historical Significance of the Site
- Development Timeline
- What are the potential benefits of this new housing development for the Cork community?
- How can local residents stay informed about the progress of the project?
- evergreen insights: Cork’s Housing Landscape
- Frequently asked Questions About the Cork Housing Project
A significant housing development is in the works for Cork, Ireland, with plans submitted for 170 new homes on the site of the former Vita Cortex factory. BML Duffy Property Ltd. submitted the application, which proposes four tower blocks ranging from four to nine stories in height, located between kinsale Rd and Pearse Rd.
Details of the Proposed Housing Development
The development aims to provide a mix of housing options, including 51 one-bedroom apartments, 84 two-bedroom units, and 35 three-bedroom units. Along with residential space, the plans incorporate community-focused amenities.
- A creche
- A café
- A management office
- Four retail units on a public plaza
These additions are intended to create a vibrant and self-sufficient community hub.
Did You Know? Cork’s population is projected to increase by 50% by 2040, highlighting the urgent need for new housing developments like this one.
Sustainable Transportation and Parking
Recognizing the importance of sustainable transportation, the development includes ample bicycle parking. There are 514 bicycle parking spaces planned, located in four bike sheds at either undercroft or ground-floor level. Car parking is more limited, with 82 shared spaces, including 13 electric vehicle (EV) charging points and six wheelchair-accessible spaces, three of which are equipped for EV charging.
This approach encourages residents to utilize alternative modes of transport and supports the city’s environmental goals. Ireland aims to have nearly one million electric vehicles on the road by 2030, requiring significant investment in charging infrastructure according to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI).
Additional Features and Infrastructure
The project also includes essential infrastructure components, such as an ESB substation, new access points for vehicles and pedestrians from Kinsale Rd and Pearse Rd, and bin stores. Green roofs and solar panels are planned, reflecting a commitment to sustainable building practices. The development will also facilitate the future expansion of BusConnects along the Kinsale Rd, improving public transportation access.
Pro Tip: Green roofs not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of buildings but also help to reduce stormwater runoff and improve insulation, leading to lower energy costs.
Historical Significance of the Site
The Vita Cortex factory site carries a significant historical weight.In 2011, it was the scene of a 160-day sit-in protest by workers who were made redundant without pay just before Christmas.This industrial dispute garnered national attention, leading to protests, a television appeal, and debates in Dáil Éireann, the Irish parliament. Eventually, a resolution was reached, with workers receiving an undisclosed sum. The dispute highlighted the challenges faced by workers during economic downturns and the importance of fair labor practices. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) played a key role in advocating for the workers’ rights during the Vita Cortex dispute according to their archives.
Development Timeline
The timeline for the project is subject to planning approval and construction schedules. However,similar projects in cork have typically taken between 18 to 24 months from approval to completion,depending on the complexity and scale of the development.
| Phase | Estimated Duration |
|---|---|
| Planning Approval | 6-12 Months |
| Construction | 18-24 Months |
| Total Project Timeline | 24-36 Months |
What are the potential benefits of this new housing development for the Cork community?
How can local residents stay informed about the progress of the project?
evergreen insights: Cork’s Housing Landscape
Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city, faces increasing pressure to meet the growing demand for housing. Recent reports indicate a significant shortage of available properties, driving up rental costs and impacting affordability. Developments like the proposed Vita Cortex site project are crucial for addressing this housing deficit and providing homes for a diverse range of residents. The Irish government has set enterprising targets for housing construction in cork and other major cities, aiming to alleviate the housing crisis and promote sustainable urban growth.
Frequently asked Questions About the Cork Housing Project
- What is being proposed for the former Vita Cortex site in Cork?
- A housing development consisting of 170 homes in four tower blocks, ranging from four to nine stories, is proposed for the former Vita Cortex factory site near Kinsale Rd in Cork.
- What types of housing units are included in the cork housing project?
- The development includes 51 one-bedroom apartments, 84 two-bedroom units, and 35 three-bedroom units, catering to a variety of housing needs.
- What amenities are planned for the new housing development?
- The proposed development includes a creche, a café, a management office, and four retail units, enhancing the living experience for residents.
- What parking facilities are included in the Cork housing development plan?
- The plans include 514 bicycle parking spaces and 82 shared car-parking spaces,with provisions for electric vehicle charging and wheelchair accessibility.
- How does the new development address sustainability?
- The development incorporates green roofs, solar panels, and electric vehicle charging points, reflecting a commitment to sustainable living and reducing environmental impact. The project will also facilitate the future expansion of BusConnects along the Kinsale Rd.
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