(a) special natural characteristics or cultural heritage
Cork City plan area has a rich reserve of heritage encompassing the natural environment, cultural heritage, archaeology and built heritage. Built around estuarine islands in the valley of the River Lee, Cork City is shaped by its rolling landscape, waterways and a rich mix of natural, built and cultural heritage. Having gradually extended up the steep hills that rise to the north and south, the city now expands deeper into its hinterland. Cork City plan area environment includes a collection of streets, buildings, rivers and waterways, parks, public spaces, natural habitats, native woodlands, trees and hedgerows. The area has a very rich and diverse range of natural ecosystems, including 14 European protected sites, i.e., 1 Special Areas of Conservations (SACs) (which is also a pNHA), 1 Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and 10 proposed Natural Heritage Areas (NHAs) (of which 1 is an SAC and 1 is a Salmonid River). Cork’s unique cultural identity is distinct yet evolving and is shaped by diverse communities. The preservation of Cork’s cultural heritage and cultivation of our cultural identity makes the city an attractive and vibrant place to live, work, study and visit. Cork City Council has an important role to play in ensuring that the city’s culture is valued. Cork City’s cultural heritage is a captivating blend of tangible landmarks and intangible expressions. It has accumulated a wealth of built heritage, including: • Protected Structures: architecture safeguarded for future generations. • National Monuments: significant historical sites. • Architectural Conservation Areas (ACAs): designated areas preserving architectural character. All of these structures tell stories of resilience, trade, and enterprise that define Cork’s past. Cork City plan area’s cultural heritage extends to various intangible aspects which also form part of Cork’s cultural tapestry, including: • Irish Language: The Irish language plays a significant role in Cork’s cultural fabric. • Local and Oral History: Stories passed down through generations, local customs, and collective memories contribute to the city’s heritage. • Genealogy: Exploring family roots and connections. • Folklore: Tales, legends, and traditions that shape the community. • Traditional Food: Culinary practices and recipes that reflect Cork’s unique flavours. The Plan will not set the context for land use or development activities outside of that already established by Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028, as varied, and its associated SEA And AA, and therefore, no negative affected are identified at this time for natural and/or cultural heritage. The Plan will complement the planning policy framework and be consistent with the provisions of the above Plan and any other relevant and/or future plans, etc.. A screening statement in support of Appropriate Assessment has also been prepared for this Plan in line with Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). It has concluded that it can be concluded by Cork City Council that the Cork City LECP is not likely, alone or in-combination with other plans or projects, to have a significant effect on any European Sites in view of their Conservation Objectives."
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