1 13 Table of contents 15 108-109

Part 8 Design Statement - Elizabeth Fort, Cork City

2.1 ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE

As per Kelly Quinlan Assessment (Appendix B), Elizabeth Fort is:

‐ “one of the oldest upstanding structures in the city of Cork

‐ one in a system of fortifications around Cork and its harbour

‐ of major historic importance in the development and growth of Cork city

‐ in continuous and varied use over a period of more than 400 years

‐ a highly significant site related to the military and social history of Cork

‐ a complete and intact site without encroachment

‐ of a visual character that is intact and recognisable

‐ a place that, in addition to its early fabric, contains well preserved examples from the 1930’s of the early architecture of the State ‐ buildings of considerable interest and charm which are designed to respect the entrance axis and scale of the courtyard ‐ a place of great historical, educational, and cultural value which contributes an important layer to the historical development of the city. It is strategically located close to the historic centre of Cork and beside the 7th century foundation of St Finbarr.” 2.2 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS AND MITIGATIONS The impact assessment will highlight how the elements of the historic structure’s special character (those which contribute to its special architectural, historical, archaeological, artistic, cultural, scientific, social and/or technical interest) would be materially altered by the development. Impacts to the cultural heritage of the proposed development are graded under the headings:

‐ Positive/Negative ‐ Long Term/Short Term ‐ Reversible/Irreversible ‐ High/Moderate/Low/Negligible/None

The magnitude of these impacts can range from ‘high’ in the case of drastic alterations or demolitions, to ‘negligible’ or ‘none’ where little or no change will ensue as a result of the impact. Some impacts can either be ‘beneficial’ or ‘adverse’ depending on whether the heritage character of the feature being impacted upon is enhanced or degraded as a result. A ‘neutral’ impact will be neither beneficial nor adverse.