Cork City Council has granted permission for a new hotel at the junction of Connell Street and Oliver Plunkett Street Lower.
The permission covers the demolition and removal of existing vacant commercial buildings and the construction of a hotel ranging in height from five to 10 storeys above ground level, with 180 bed spaces, a courtyard in the centre, a gym, reception area, kitchen, and breakfast/dining area.
The site currently comprises a number of single-storey buildings, which are now surrounded by more recently developed neighbouring plots ranging in height up to six floors.
Permission was granted to Starstone Property Investment Ltd despite some submissions by local residents who expressed concern about the proposed height, with one stating: “Building something of this height will dominate and suffocate our street, making it feel both hostile and intimidating.”
However, one of the council’s senior planners stated in a report: “By itself, a 10-storey building in the city centre is not considered at variance with its existing skyline.
“The height of the existing permitted tall buildings assists in negating the overall visual impact.
“Having regard to the quality of the design of the proposed building, it is considered that it will have an overall enhancing and positive visual impact on a range of views from the adjoining public streets and the wider local area.”