Cork Docklands Regeneration Plan Unveiled as Public Consultation Begins
Public consultation begins on Cork Docklands Framework Plan - Ireland's largest urban regeneration project set to deliver 10,000 new homes. Have your say until 28 May.
Cork City Council and the Cork Docklands Delivery Office have published a transformative framework plan to guide Ireland's largest urban regeneration project, with public consultation now underway on proposed variations to the current City Development Plan.
The Cork Docklands Framework Plan aims to deliver essential infrastructure for the 147-hectare riverside site, enabling the construction of 9,000-10,000 new homes while providing world-class public amenities and community facilities.
Strategic Infrastructure to Unlock Development
The plan, which will form a new volume of the City Development Plan if adopted, outlines the extensive public realm, waterside amenity, travel, sports and community infrastructure needed to unlock the full development potential of the Docklands area.
This strategic infrastructure will support the creation of compact urban housing while respecting the historical and natural features of this nationally important location.
According to the framework, the plan:
- Aligns overarching policy and strategy into a single cohesive plan
- Integrates community, public realm, arts and culture, sports and active recreation infrastructure
- Provides a clear vision for transformation of the built and natural fabric
- Establishes a strategic policy document to support infrastructure delivery
- Validates investment priorities for Government's Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) projects
Cork Docklands: Ireland's Largest Regeneration Project
The Cork Docklands regeneration represents the largest and most ambitious urban renewal project in Ireland, with capacity to accommodate approximately 20% of Cork City's population growth target to 2040.
Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Dan Boyle, commented:
"There have been many plans and conversations over the years regarding the regeneration of Cork Docklands and it is exciting to be at a point where the delivery is becoming reality."
The development is already gaining momentum, with 6,000 people currently employed in the area and 640 new homes under construction.
Public Consultation Process
Cork City Council is inviting public input on the proposed variation from 30 April until 28 May 2025. Two open days will be held:
- Wednesday 7 May at Clayton Hotel, Lapps Quay (12pm-8pm)
- Wednesday 14 May at Millennium Hall, Cork City Hall (12pm-8pm)
The project team will also be present at the 'European Maritime Days to Play' event on Albert and Kennedy Quays on 24 May.
A Vision for Sustainable Urban Living
The framework envisions Cork Docklands as an international exemplar for sustainable living and a carbon-neutral district where 75% of journeys will be made by walking, cycling or public transport.
Valerie O'Sullivan, Chief Executive of Cork City Council, said:
"The regeneration of Cork Docklands will be transformational for the city. The Framework Plan is about implementation and the actual delivery of key enabling infrastructure that will further unlock the Docklands opportunity for Cork and for Ireland."
When completed, the project will provide homes for 22,500-25,000 residents and support 25,000 jobs, creating walkable neighbourhoods with the necessary infrastructure for vibrant communities to thrive.
The public can make submissions online at www.corkcitydevelopmentplan.ie, by email to Citydevplan@corkcity.ie, or in writing to Cork City Council by 5pm on 28 May 2025.
