Statement on An Bord Pleanála decision on Morrison's Island Project

19th June 2020

Cork City Council has welcomed the decision by An Bord Pleanála (ABP) to approve the Morrison’s Island Public Realm and Flood Defence Project.

In its decision, ABP stated that, subject to compliance with conditions set out, the proposed development would:

• deliver significant benefits in terms of reducing the risk of tidal flooding in the area,
• provide for necessary remedial works to the quay walls,
• provide for a much-improved public realm along the waterside,
• deliver a safe environment for pedestrians and cyclists and
• be acceptable in terms of pedestrian and traffic safety.

Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr. Joe Kavanagh said:

“I very much welcome the decision announced this morning. I think that the decision is a strong vindication of the rationale in bringing forward this public realm project, and is also an endorsement of the design and quality of the scheme.  This is a transformational scheme for the city centre and for riverside amenity and I believe it will be warmly welcomed by Cork people and visitors alike.” 

Cork City Council Director of Services for Infrastructure Development Gerry O’Beirne said:

“An Bord Pleanála’s decision enables the fulfilment of a long standing objective for the City.  The project will deliver a high quality public space at this important waterside location as well as much needed flood protection works.  Cork City Council will now proceed to complete the detailed design and tender documents with a view to awarding the works contract in the coming months.”

In making its decision, ABP referenced key the location of the site in an established, built-up urban area in the heart of Cork City, and also referred to:

• the poor quality of the public realm
• the inefficient use of the riverside area which is dominated by traffic and parked cars,
• the poor state of repair of the historic quay walls, and
• the severity and hardship experienced by residents and businesses in the area.