Multi-million euro plan unveiled for Irish ISPAT site
The Government has given the green light for a multi-million euro tourism, commercial and residential development on the former Irish ISPAT site on Haulbowline, Co Cork.
It’s believed to be the biggest development since the Dublin Financial Services Centre.
Enterprise, Trade and Employment Minister, Micheál Martin said the State plan for the former industrial site is to include:
200 apartments;
16,000 square metres of office space;
a marina, with up to 225 berths and clubhouse;
a 300 bed hotel;
a Maritime Museum;
a landmark building, which Minister Martin said “will become a renowned feature for Cork.”
Minister Martin confirmed that he has the backing of the Taoiseach for the plan.
“What we plan is to ensure that Haulbowline Island becomes a world focal point and a major tourism, jobs and residential related contributor to the Cork economy,” he told .
It is understood that Minister Martin is to announce a committee to oversee the implementation of the project, including representatives of the neighbouring naval service, and expects a report back by November.
Currently the 44 acre site is at an advance stage of environmental cleaning and it is understood that preliminary development work on Minister Martin’s plan could begin in the coming year.
Major international high tech companies are expected to avail of some of the office space being allocated in what Minister Martin said is, “a site that had the potential to be the most attractive waterside site in Europe.”
The jobs that would be generated in the new development will be alto greater than what was lost in the closure of the steel plant.
Minister Martin added: “Haulbowline has unique attractions, including the National Maritime College and the UCC Marine Research Centre. These, and its longstanding marine traditions, will form the basis for a complete redevelopment plan which will transform the environment in Cork and particularly the lower harbour.”
The plan will be welcomed by local interests, who have looked on with concern as to the future of what is currently an eyesore on the entrance to Cork harbour. It is now, though, set to be one of the focal points in Europe of business. tourism and leisure-related use.
