Green Light for Cork City Futures Group

The new taskforce called the ‘Cork City Futures Group’ charged with unlocking Cork city’s full potential should be ambitious in its vision.

Cork North Central TD and Fine Gael Spokesperson on Cork Colm Burke said Cabinet approval for a new Cork City Futures Group is a solid step towards developing the city for this and future generations.

Deputy Burke said the establishment of the group provides an opportunity to take an ambitious coordinated, time-bound and delivery-focused approach to the future development of Cork.

Deputy Burke stated “Cork is a growing city with a population of over 224,000 and projected to reach over 330,000 by 2040. With Cork accounting for approximately 12% of the national workforce, it is essential that Government takes a strategic approach to managing this growth”.

Deputy Burke said the model should build on the success of the Dublin City Taskforce, while recognising Cork’s unique needs and opportunities. He emphasised that housing delivery must be at the core of the group’s work, particularly in the city centre.  

“We must prioritise compact, city-centre growth, including the expansion of social, affordable and cost-rental housing. The regeneration of the Cork Docklands represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to deliver up to 10,000 homes, 25,000 jobs and must be accelerated.”

Cork North West Fine Gael TD John Paul O’Shea also called for stronger action on vacancy and dereliction, including expanded use of compulsory purchase orders and enhanced refurbishment grants to bring properties back into use.

Deputy O’Shea highlighted the importance of delivering major transport projects to support Cork’s expansion.

“These include the M20 Cork to Limerick road, the Northern Distributor Route, the M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy and the delivery of BusConnects, commuter rail and the proposed Luas for Cork. Investment in park-and-ride, active travel and improved airport connectivity will also be critical.” 

Deputy Burke added that the Futures Group must also focus on revitalising Cork city centre.

“This includes targeted regeneration of key areas such as North Main Street, delivery of the Cork Events Centre, and supporting ‘over-the-shop’ living to bring vibrancy back into the city centre.” 

Deputy Burke said that the group must consider essential health and social infrastructure, progressing the elective hospital at Sarsfield Court and establishing an integrated inclusion health hub to support those experiencing homelessness.

Deputy Burke concluded: “This is a good day for Cork city which represents a huge opportunity to demonstrate to other cities what can be achieved with combined focus and will. Investing in our cities and towns is the only way we will sustain strong regional development. However, the real test will be in delivery. The group is to provide a broad plan for Cork city this year and it’s imperative that this timeline is adhered to.

“I look forward to engaging with the group and ensuring that Cork receives the investment and focus it deserves.”