The grant of planning permission for an iconic tower at the Port of Cork site in the heart of Cork city has been hailed as a clear statement of intent and ambition by Cork Chamber.
The scheme is set to become an iconic landmark in the heart of the city and will include a hotel, retail offering and a substantial maritime culture and heritage attraction, helping to further develop Cork city centre’s potential for growth in a post Covid-19 era.
The new hotel accommodation will offer five-star luxury including a spa, swimming pool and gym facilities.
The new tower will incorporate and restore the historic Custom House, and will feature a sky-bar and restaurant where visitors can enjoy locally produced cuisine while taking in panoramic view of Cork city.
The bonded warehouses on the site will be given a new lease of life and opened to public access for the first time. The design includes an interactive visitors centre representing Cork’s rich maritime heritage as a port.
Other elements to the development include retail, food and beverage outlets and a new micro-distillery at the eastern end of the site.
Speaking regarding the planning approval, Chamber CEO Conor Healy said: “There is a unique and valuable role for progressive developers and design teams in the evolution of our city region.
“The developer, Tower Holdings’ wide ranging design team and city council must be commended for their vision for a progressive urban environment.”
“Bold statements such as this inspire and match the ambition that exists across the Cork region. Now more than ever there is a role for architecture to drive debate, civic pride and investment as we reimagine our city.
“The treatment of the bonded warehouses, being opened to the public for the first time in history shows a commitment to enhancing our heritage experience, and the development will undoubtedly add spark to the economic diversity of the city centre.”
