Cork City Development Plan 2022 - 2028 Volume 1

Cork City Natura Impact Report in support of the Appropriate Assessment

Cork City Development Plan 2022 – 2028

Volume 1 Written Statement

1

With a population of over 210,000 and ambitious growth targets over the next 20 years, Cork City is an emerging international centre of scale and a national driver of economic and population growth . “

2

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028

Document Versions Adopted

27th June 2022

Came into effect

8th August 2022

Ministerial Direction issued

2nd December 2022

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Photo Competition Winner Young People’s What young people think makes Cork City great

Secondary School Joint 2nd Place

I took this picture on the Nano Nagle Bridge. It represents the beauty of the river that holds our city.

Photo Location: Parliament Bridge, Holy Trinity Church and River Lee

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Contents

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Volume 1

Written Statement

Chapter 1

Introduction

Page 7

Chapter 2

Core Strategy

Page 23

Chapter 3

Delivering Homes and Communities

Page 71

Chapter 4

Transport and Mobility

Page 105

Chapter 5

Climate Change and Environment

Page 145

Chapter 6

Green and Blue Infrastructure, Open Space and Biodiversity

Page 167

Chapter 7

Economy and Employment

Page 219

Chapter 8

Heritage, Arts and Culture

Page 259

Chapter 9

Environmental Infrastructure

Page 281

Chapter 10

Key Growth Areas and Neighbourhood Development Sites

Page 301

Chapter 11

Placemaking and Managing Development

Page 455

Chapter 12

Land Use Zoning Objectives

Page 537

Chapter 13

Implementation

Page 553

Glossary & Acronyms

Page 565

Appendix 1

Compliance with Ministerial Guidelines

Page 571

Appendix 2

Composite Core Strategy

Page 575

External Appendix 3 Strategic Environmental Assessment

External Appendix 4 Natura Impact Report for Appropriate Assessment

External Appendix 5 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment

Mapped Objectives

Volume 3 Volume 2

Built Heritage Objectives

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1 6

Chapter 1 I Introduction Chapter 1

Introduction

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Introduction

1.3 For the first time, a single statutory development plan will encompass Cork City and all its suburbs, including the towns of Ballincollig, Blarney, Tower and Glanmire, and the immediate hinterland areas. 1.4 The new City Development Plan will represent an important step in the evolution of the strategic planning of Cork City. This Plan will influence how we engage with each other as communities; how we work, learn, travel, rest, play and experience all that the city has to offer. It will guide how we use our land and water and where new homes, businesses, schools, community facilities, health services and open spaces will be located. While setting a framework to achieve the ambitions for Cork City, the core principles embodied in this plan are sustainable development, health, compact growth, the creation of liveable communities and places, and the complimenting of nature and climate resilience.

1.1 With a population of over 210,000 and ambitious growth targets over the next 20 years, Cork City is an emerging international centre of scale and a national driver of economic and population growth. This City Development Plan sets out how Cork City will grow and develop over the next six years and continue to be an innovative, vibrant and healthy city. 1.2 Cork is a diverse city. It is a twin-university and maritime City with a vibrant city centre, thriving neighbourhoods and urban towns, a rich hinterland and a rich range of natural and built heritage. Cork City has significant potential for sustainable growth and has the necessary human, economic and envi- ronmental assets to realise its full potential.

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

1.5 The Strategic Vision is for Cork City to take its place as a world class city, driving local and regional growth, embracing diversity and inclusiveness and growing as a resilient, healthy, age-friendly and sustainable Strategic Vision

compact city with placemaking, communities and quality of life at its heart. This strategic vision is based on the following key strategic principles:

Compact growth Integrate land-use and transport planning to achieve a compact city with 50% of all new homes delivered within the existing built-up footprint of the City on regenerated brownfield, infill and greenfield sites identified in the Core Strategy, and to achieve higher population densities aligned with strategic infrastructure delivery. A city of neighbourhoods and communities Develop a sustainable, liveable city of neighbourhoods and communities based on the 15-minute city concept, ensuring that placemaking, accessibility and safety is at the heart of all development. Sustainable and active travel To implement the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Study (CMATS) and develop a transformed sustainable transport system with a significant shift toward walking, cycling and public transport and to enshrine this principle in all developments across the City. Enhanced built and natural heritage Protect, enhance, support and develop our built and natural heritage, our open spaces and parks, and our green and blue infrastructure, and expand our built heritage with new buildings, townscapes and public spaces achieved through the highest standards of architecture and urban design.

A strong and diverse economy Support Cork City’s role as the economic driver for the region and the creation of a strong, resilient, diverse and innovative economy.

A resilient City Contribute to a framework for the transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient City, resilient to extreme weather events, pandemics, economic cycles and other potential shocks.

A healthy, inclusive and diverse city Build on Cork City’s status as a World Health Organisation designated Healthy City, offering an inclusive and vibrant environment for all whilst promoting healthy living and wellbeing. A connected City Cork City will continue to be a highly connected city providing local, regional, national and international connectivity. A city of learning and culture To build on Cork’s designation as a UNESCO Learning City and the city’s rich cultural heritage and to foster learning, culture, heritage and the arts throughout the City.

9 Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

1.6 Cork has a strong foundation on which to build this strategic vision. Cork is already a well-performing medium-sized European urban centre and a major driver of growth in Ireland. Expanding further upon this potential is crucial to enable Cork City to grow in line with national, regional and local ambitions. This strategic vision and strategic objectives will allow Cork City to flourish and develop as an internationally competitive, sustainable urban environment – a city that values its people and provides an enhanced city for people to live, work, play and visit. A New City Development Plan 1.7 The National Planning Framework sets significant growth targets for Cork City. By 2040, it is planned that Cork will be a city of international scale offering residents of the region a broader range of services and opportunities and supporting continued public and private sector investment. 1.8 This City Development Plan is the key land use and strategic planning strategy to guide the development of Cork City to achieve this strategic vision. 2020

The City Development Plan 2022 – 2028 will be the first development plan of a three-plan cycle up to 2040, the horizon year of the National Planning Framework. This Plan therefore represents the first step in achieving the ambitions of the National Planning Framework. 1.9 Development Plans have a wide stakeholder audience including local communities, developers, health services, businesses, education providers, landowners, government departments, infrastructure and utilities companies and environmental groups. Collaboration with all of these stakeholders is necessary for this Plan to succeed. 1.10 This plan sets a foundation to achieve long-term goals for Cork City that are beyond the timeframe of the plan. For example, the development of a city of neighbourhoods, regeneration of key areas of the City such as the Docklands, delivering the long-term transport plan, and establishing the city as one of the most attractive places in Europe to live and work in. These objectives will be embedded in this plan as a means to ensure that there is a strong foundation to achieve these objectives in the long-term and within the context of future development plans. An Informed Plan 1.11 This Plan brings together a wide range of sustainable planning principles based on established good practice and new thinking. In addition to the broad consultation with residents and interest groups in Cork City, the plan has been informed by a suite of studies, international comparators and socio- economic forecasts and assessments. These include: • A Joint Housing Strategy that considered the future demand for a mix of housing types and tenures across Cork City and County; • A Green and Blue Infrastructure Study that captures an evidence-based approach for the use, protection and enhancement of the City’s natural and semi-natural spaces and corridors including parks, woodlands, fields, hedges, lakes, ponds, playing fields, aquatic habitats and watercourses.

CDP 2022 - 2028

CDP 2028 - 2034

CDP 2034 - 2040

2040

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

• An Active Recreation Needs Assessment that forecasts the need for amenities for active and passive physical activity. • A Citywide Capacity Study , a residential land audit that assessed, in a bottom-up approach,

Plan. Accompanying this Plan are a Strategic Environmental Assessment, Appropriate Assessment and Strategic Flood Risk Assessment.

Local Planning

the capacity of lands within the City to accommodate residential development.

• A City Neighbourhood Profile , that provides key information on 44 distinct neighbourhoods in Cork City. • Greater clarity on urban densities and building height provided through an Urban Density, Building Height and Tall Building Strategy . 1.12 These strategies and studies together provide a robust evidence base for the strategic vision and development objectives set out in this Plan. In parallel, a range of other studies and reports are being prepared that have informed the City Development Plan. These include Cork City Council’s Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, Cork City Centre Economic and Revitalisation Study, and the City’s Heritage and Biodiversity

1.13 Where appropriate, the City Development Plan objectives may be developed in more detail at a local level. This may be through local area plans, framework plans or development briefs. These will be prepared as the need arises and resources allow. 1.14 Where framework plans are indicated for an area, this does not imply that no development proposals will be considered prior to the framework plan being prepared. However, the scale, mix and form of any such development and its associated infrastructure will need to be designed to successfully integrate with the existing and emerging local neighbourhood and wider city area.

11 Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Strategic Context 1.17 This new City Development Plan represents an important step in the strategic planning of the City against the backdrop of a new national and regional planning context. The direction of the future development of Cork City is guided by the National Planning Framework, Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy, Cork Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan and the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy. These set clear objectives for the population of Cork City to grow by 50% to 335,000 by 2040. This ambition must be achieved in a sustainable way with the objective of improving quality of life for all residents, workers and visitors to Cork City. These are discussed further within the Core Strategy.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Legislative Basis for this Plan

1.18 There are 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the UN General Assembly in 2015 as a blueprint to achieve better and more sustainable development for all. Development Plan policies and objectives can support the achievement of SDGs. Ireland has committed to achieving the SDGs as set out in the ‘The Sustainable Development Goals National Implementation Plan 2018-2020’ published by the Department of Communications, Climate Action and Environment.

1.15 Development Plans must comply with the require- ments set out in the Planning and Development Act, 2000 as amended and associated Regulations. Sections 9 to 12 of the Act relate to the making of a development plan. One of the core legal requirements of a development plan is to set out an overall strategy for the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. 1.16 In addition, a development plan must comply with various European Directives including Directives relating to Strategic Environmental Assessment, Habitats and Flooding. The Plan must also comply with Ministerial Guidelines issued under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act and any Specific Planning Policy Requirements (‘SPPRs’) included within. Appendix 1 contains the statement relating to this Plan to demonstrate compliance with this requirement.

Source: United Nations (UN).

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Project Ireland 2040

1.19 Project Ireland 2040 is the Government’s long- term overarching strategy to ‘make Ireland a better country for all of its people’. This comprises the National Development Plan 2018-2027 and the National Planning Framework (NPF) – a high-level strategy to guide development and investment in Ireland up to 2040. Project Ireland 2040 sets ambitious growth targets for Cork City based on a vision of a regional strategy to provide a counterbalance to Dublin. The NPF sets out ten National Strategic Outcomes, which form the basis for this Plan.

Regional Spatial & Economic Strategy for the Southern Region

Source: National Planning Framework (NPF).

Programme mark (Used for endorsement)

Programme with explicit government text

Southern Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

Rialtas na hÉireann Government of Ireland

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

1.20 The RSES is a strategic regional development framework supporting Project Ireland 2040 and the NPF. It sets a settlement and economic hierarchy for the region and reinforces the National Strategic Outcomes with Regional Planning Objectives. Development plans are legally required to be consistent with the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy.

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

Rialtas na hÉireann Government of Ireland

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

Rialtas na hÉireann Government of Ireland

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

Rialtas na hÉireann Government of Ireland

2040 Tionscadal Éireann Project Ireland

Source: Southern Regional Spatial & Economic Strategy (RSES).

13 Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Cork Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan

1.21 The Cork MASP is included within the RSES and it sets out policy objectives for the Cork Metropolitan Area. The MASP builds upon the ambitious growth targets for Cork set out in the NPF and seeks to strengthen the Cork Metropolitan area as an inter- national location of scale, and a primary driver of economic and population growth in the region.

Strategic Employment Locations, Mixed Use Employment & Regional Assets

Example Regeneration Areas

a: Blackpool b: North West Regeneration Area c: Tramore Road d: Mahon

1: Ringaskiddy 2: Little Island 3: Carrigtwohill

N20

M8

4: Cork Science Innovation Park 5:Cork Institute of Technology

6:Cork University Hospital 7:University College Cork 8: Hollyhill 9: Blackpool/Kilbarry 10: Model Farm Road and South Environs

11: Tramore Road 12: Cork Airport 13: Whitegate 14: Marino Point

M8

N25

Blarney

9.

Glanmire

N20

A.

Midleton

N25

8.

B.

N25

Carrigtwohill

D.

Ballincollig

7.

2.

3.

5. 6.

4.

Passage West

C.

10.

11.

N22

14.

Cobh

N28

12.

1.

N71

Carrigaline

13.

N71

1.

Example Regeneration Areas

Strategic Road Network Other Key Roads

Cork Metropolitan Area Spatial Plan (MASP)

Potential for a Cork Harbour Strategic Integrated Framework Plan Initiative

Rail Network

Cork City Boundary (new)

Indicative Light Rail Corridor (subject to planning)

City Centre and Docklands

Tier 1 Port of Cork

Monard SDZ - requiring strategic road and rail infrastructure Light Rail corridor - Ballincollig/City Centre/ Kent Station/Mahon

Metropolitan Towns

Inter Regional Connectivity

Strategic Employment Locations, Mixed Use Employment & Regional Assets

A.

Midleton to Youghal Greeway / Option of Future Railway

Airport

*(approximate locations for illustrative purposes)

Source: Cork Metropolitan Area Spatial Plan, Southern Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy, Southern Regional Assembly.

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

CMATS sets out a framework for the planning and delivery of transport infrastructure and services to support the Metropolitan Area’s development in the period up to 2040. It provides a coherent transport planning policy framework and implementation plan, around which Cork City Council, Cork County Council and other agencies involved in land use planning, transport investment, environmental protection and the delivery of housing, employment development and other infrastructure can align their investment priorities.

Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy

WHITECHURCH investment of €3.5 billion to improve mobility in the Cork Metropolitan Area, including Cork City, with significant investment in public transport, walking and cycling. CMATS 2040 Land Use Distribution 1.22 CMATS was produced by the National Transport Authority (NTA) in collaboration with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), Cork City Council and Cork County Council. This represents a coordinated land-use and transport strategy for the Cork Metropolitan Area up to 2040. It envisages an

CMATS 2040 Land Use Distribution

WHITECHURCH

SALLYBROOK

BLARNEY

BROOKLODGE

TOWER

GLANMIRE

BLACKPOOL

SALLYBROOK

GLOUNTHAUNE

MAYFIELD

MIDLETON

CARRIGTWOHILL

BLARNEY

KNOCKNAHEENEY

BROOKLODGE

Kent Station

TOWER

CORK CITY

GLANMIRE

LITTLE ISLAND

BLACKPOOL

DOCKLANDS

BALLYNACORRA

GLOUNTHAUNE

MAYFIELD

MIDLETON

BLACKROCK

CARRIGTWOHILL

KNOCKNAHEENEY

BALLINCOLLIG

Kent Station

BISHOPSTOWN

CORK CITY

LITTLE ISLAND

DOUGLAS

DOCKLANDS

BALLYNACORRA

PASSAGE WEST

BLACKROCK

ROCHESTOWN

BALLINCOLLIG

FRANKFIELD

LEGEND - KEY INFORMATION

BISHOPSTOWN

Rail Corridor

DOUGLAS

COBH

PASSAGE WEST

Existing Train Station

MONKSTOWN

ROCHESTOWN

Industry/Employment

FRANKFIELD

LEGEND - KEY INFORMATION

CORK AIRPORT

Residential

Rail Corridor

Port

COBH

Existing Train Station

MONKSTOWN

RINGASKIDDY

Education

BALLYGARVAN

Industry/Employment

WHITEGATE

Hospital

CORK AIRPORT

Residential

CARRIGALINE

Retail

Port

Culture

RINGASKIDDY

Education

BALLYGARVAN

CROSSBARRY

WHITEGATE

Hospital

CARRIGALINE Source: Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS), National Transport Authority. Retail

Culture

SSBARRY

RIVERSTICK

Alignment with the UN SDGs and NPF

INNISHANNON

RIVERSTICK

1.23 This Plan sets out 9 Strategic Objectives to guide development in the City. These Strategic Objectives generally reflect the various Chapters set out in this Plan and are addressed in Chapter 2.

However, the following tables set out how these 9 Strategic Objectives align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the National Strategic Outcomes of the National Planning Framework.

15 Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

National Planning Framework Strategic Outcomes

Cork City Development Plan Strategic Objectives SO1 – Compact Liveable Growth Deliver compact growth that achieves a sustainable 15 minute city of scale providing integrated communities and walkable neighbourhoods, dockland and brownfield regeneration, infill development and strategic greenfield expansion adjacent to the existing city.

Compact Growth

Transition to a Low Carbon & Climate Resilient Society

Sustainable Mobility

A Strong Economy supported by Enterprise, Innovation and Skills

Sustainable Management of Water, Waste and Other Environmental Resources

Access to Quality Childcare, Education & Health Services

Enhanced Regional Accessibility

SO2 – Delivering Homes & Communities

Provide densities that create liveable, integrated communities by using a mix of house types, tenures and sizes linked to active and public transport. Provide amenities, services and community and cultural uses to enable inclusive, diverse and culturally rich neighbourhoods.

Strengthened Rural Economies & Communities

Compact Growth

Access to Quality Childcare, Education & Health Services

Sustainable Mobility

SO3 – Transport & Mobility

Integrate land-use and transportation planning to increase active travel (walking and cycling) and public transport usage. Enable the key transport projects in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) delivering multi-modal usage and smart mobility, accessible for all.

Enhanced Regional Accessibility

High Quality International Connectivity

Sustainable Mobility

Transition to a Low Carbon & Climate Resilient Society

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

National Planning Framework Strategic Outcomes

Cork City Development Plan Strategic Objectives

SO4 – Climate & Environment

Transition to a low-carbon, climate- resilient and environmentally sustainable future. Implement climate mitigation and adaptation measures that reduce our carbon footprint including sustainable energy consumption, sustainable transport, circular economy, green construction and flood risk mitigation and adaptation.

Strengthened Rural Economies & Communities

Compact Growth

Transition to a Low Carbon & Climate Resilient Society

SO5 – Green and Blue Infrastructure, Open Space and Biodiversity Manage and enhance green and blue infrastructure, to protect and promote biodiversity, ecology and habitat connectivity, protect natural areas, enhance landscape character and maritime heritage, and manage access to green and blue spaces that provide recreation, amenity and natural areas.

Enhanced Culture, Amenity & Heritage

Transition to a Low Carbon & Climate Resilient Society

Sustainable Management of Water, Waste and Other Environmental Resources

SO6 – Economy and Employment

Be a national and regional economic driver delivering strong, resilient, diverse and innovative economic growth. Focus new employment in strategic areas across the city. Enhance Cork’s role as a city of learning, using knowledge and talent as a key enabler for city and economic growth.

Strengthened Rural Economies & Communities

A Strong Economy supported by Enterprise, Innovation and Skills

17 Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

National Planning Framework Strategic Outcomes

Cork City Development Plan Strategic Objectives SO7 – Heritage, Arts and Culture Protect and enhance the unique character and built fabric of the city, its neighbourhoods, urban towns and settlements by caring for Protected Structures, archaeological monuments and heritage, Architectural Conservation Areas and intangible heritage. Identify, protect, enhance and grow Cork’s unique cultural heritage and

Enhanced Culture, Amenity & Heritage

Sustainable Management of Water, Waste and Other Environmental Resources

expression in an authentic and meaningful way. Ensure Cork’s

heritage, culture and arts are celebrated and developed to create an attractive, vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, study and visit.

SO8 – Environmental Infrastructure

Ensure efficient and sustainable use of water services, enhance water quality and resource management. Manage waste generation and treatment and support the principles of the circular economy. Improve air quality and promote pro-active management of noise. Enable the sustainable delivery of digital infrastructure, renewable energy and environmental improvements.

Enhanced Culture, Amenity & Heritage

Sustainable Management of Water, Waste and Other Environmental Resources

SO9 – Placemaking & Managing Development

Develop a compact liveable city based on attractive, diverse and accessible urban spaces and places. Focus on enhancing walkable neighbourhoods that promote healthy living, wellbeing and active lifestyles, where place- making is at the heart. Follow a design-led approach with innovative architecture, landscape and urban design that respects the character of the city and neighbourhood.

Compact Growth

Access to Quality Childcare, Education & Health Services

Sustainable Mobility

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Structure of this Plan 1.24 This Plan comprises a written statement, a series of zoning maps, a built heritage volume, appendices and strategic environmental reports, as well as a series of supporting documents. The Plan is presented in three volumes:

1.26 The structure of the plan is outlined below. Each section is guided by the principles set out at the introduction to this chapter: • compact growth, • a city of neighbourhoods and communities, • sustainable and active travel, • enhanced built and natural heritage, • a diverse and resilient economy, • a resilient city, • a healthy, diverse and inclusive city, • a connected city, and • a city of learning and culture. 1.27 Chapters 1 and 2 introduce the Plan and set out the Goals and Core Strategy for the city. The following chapters 3-9 set out development objectives and actions under a range of headings. Chapter 10 identifies Key Growth Areas and Neighbourhood Development Sites throughout the City that, if developed, will have local benefits and could act as catalysts for transforming their surrounding neighbourhoods. Some of these sites may also benefit from active land management interventions. Chapter 11 sets out placemaking and development management objectives. Chapter 12 sets out land-use zoning objectives (which are illustrated in a series of zoning maps within Volume 2).

Volume 1: Written Statement Volume 2: Mapped Objectives Volume 3: Built Heritage Objectives

Volume 1: The Written Statement

1.25 The Written Statement comprises the main policy document of the Plan. While intended to be read by a broad audience this Plan is a legal document and often wording in the Plan reflects the statutory obligations of the Plan. In the event of any conflict or ambiguity between the written statement and the supporting maps or appendices, the written statement (Core Strategy and Strategic Objectives) will take precedence.

19 Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Volume 2: Mapped Objectives

1.28 These are presented in a series of maps that set out land use zonings and other objectives.

Volume 3: Built Heritage Objectives 1.29 This includes the Record of Protected Structures, the Record of Monuments and Places and Architectural Conservation Areas.

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Freedom of the City Art Competition Freedom of the City Art Competition was a creative consultation project that invited young people to inform the Cork City Development Plan. In partnership with Cork City Council and UCC’s Centre For Planning Education and Research, the Glucksman devised a creative programme for young people to participate in the consultation phase of the Cork City Development Plan. Primary, second and third level students in Cork city had the opportunity to explore creative approaches to civic life and to express their ideas for a healthier, greener and more playful city.

21 Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 1 I Introduction

Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1 22

Chapter 2

Chapter 2 I Core Strategy

Core Strategy

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 2 I Core Strategy

Introduction

Cork City’s Context 2.2 Built around estuarine islands in the valley of the River Lee, Cork City is shaped by its rolling land- scape, 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. Today, Cork City’s urban environment includes a collection of streets, buildings, rivers and water- ways, parks, public spaces, natural habitats, native woodlands, trees and hedgerows. The quality of this environment directly relates to the quality of life, health and wellbeing of everyone who lives, works and visits the city. Recognising, managing and enhancing these qualities is a key task in the delivery and implementation of this Plan.

2.1 This chapter sets out the Core Strategy for the City Development Plan. Informed by Cork City’s context and a range of international, regional and local plans and policies it includes Strategic Objectives designed to improve the quality of life in the city. Population and housing targets are set out in line with the Housing Needs and Demand Assessment, the Housing Strategy and the Capacity Study that underpin the Plan. Suitable locations for development and growth are identified, with an emphasis on achieving sustainable development, compact livable growth and enhancing the quality of life in the city.

Green and B Cork City Co

Existing G

Cor Bui Und Wa Riv Con

Figure 2.1: Cork City’s Built Footprint in Context.

F

0

1

2

© Ordnance Survey Ireland Map scale 1:75,000 @ A3

km

24

Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1 Contains Ordnance Survey Ireland data © 2021, 2020/05/CCMA/CorkCityCouncil

CB:CB EB:Bean_C LUC 002_11280_GBI_Context_r0_A1L 04/05/2021 Source: CCC, OSI

Chapter 2 I Core Strategy

Cork Civic Survey 1925

Roberston Report 1941

Cork LUTS 1960

Cork City Plan 2015 - 2022

CASP 2002 - 2020

Cork MASP 2019

Figure 2.2: Land Use Planning in Cork City and Metropolitan Area.

Land Use Planning in Cork City 2.3 Land use planning in Cork City has a rich history, providing frameworks for growth that have helped shape the city we know today. Dating from the adoption of the Cork Civic Survey (1925), land use plans have set out objectives and actions guiding new developments within the city. This Plan seeks to build on many of these ambitions by providing a clear framework for future city growth that improves the quality of life for all its residents.

The Role of the Core Strategy

2.4 The Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2010 introduced the requirement for Core Strategies as part of development plans. Section 10(2A) of the Act requires specific details to be included in core strategies, including how land use zonings accord with national and regional population targets and how these targets will be distributed across the city.

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 2 I Core Strategy

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2.7 In September 2015 world leaders adopted the United Nations (UN) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The Agenda is a global road map setting out actions for people, the planet and prosperity. It is articulated through 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set out to end poverty, fight inequality and injustice and tackle climate change by 2030. Each SDG has specific goals, targets and indicators that UN member states are using to frame their agendas and policies. This Plan is designed to ensure Cork City can play its role in supporting the delivery of the SDGs.

2.5 The core strategy sets out a growth plan for Cork City that includes population targets and locations for future growth up to 2028 and beyond. These targets and growth locations are in line with the overarching ambitions and targets set for Cork City in the NPF and the RSES. 2.6 A central function of the Core Strategy is ensuring an acceptable equilibrium in the supply of zoned, serviced land that allows for the projected popula- tion growth up to 2028. This requirement is informed by evidence. Cork City Council and Cork County Council jointly commissioned a Housing Strategy and Housing Needs Demands Analysis (HNDA). The study provides a forecast of the type and tenure of housing that will be required in the City and County for the period of the plan, thereby informing the quantum of zoned serviced land required to meet this target.

01. NPF 2040 02. RSES 2031

03. Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028

04. Preplanning Discussions

01. NPF 2040

Compact Liveable Growth

05. Project Design

06. Planning Application

08. Management

07. Construction Process

Figure 2.3: Ireland’s Spatial Planning Process in Context.

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 2 I Core Strategy

Project Ireland 2040 2.8 Project Ireland 2040 is the Irish Government’s strategy to make Ireland a better country for all its people. It is designed to deliver on many of the UN SDGs by aligning public infrastructural investment with more sustainable spatial growth patterns. The National Development Plan (NDP) and the National Planning Framework (NPF) combine to form Project Ireland 2040. The NPF sets out the spatial strategy for growth and development and is underpinned by the public investment plan set out in the NDP. 2.9 The NPF is a statutory blueprint that plans for a projected 1 million increase in our national population, 550,000 more homes and an additional 660,000 jobs by 2040. The delivery of compact growth is central to the NPF, designed to enable people to live closer to where they work, maximise return on public investment and direct a shift away from current unsustainable spatial growth patterns. The NPF and the accompanying NPF Roadmap provide the statutory framework for the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategies (RSES) and all City and County Development Plans.

2.10 The NDP (2018-2027) provides investment policy to give certainty to future national growth. It includes investment priorities for Cork City and the wider region that underpin the implementation of the NPF, enabling a stable environment for infrastructure led growth. The delivery of infrastructure led develop- ment is critical to realising the NPF’s targets and the objectives for compact liveable growth set out in this Plan. 2.11 This Development Plan recognises the important overarching roles the UN SDGs, the NPF and the NDP play in shaping land use planning and management in Cork City. The Plan’s 9 strategic objectives connect directly to 17 UN SDG’s and the 10 National Strategic Outcomes (NSO’s) in the NPF.

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1

Chapter 2 I Core Strategy

Figure 2.4: Strategic Objectives for Cork City 2022-2028.

Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region (RSES) and Cork Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan (MASP)

2.12 The Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region (RSES) is a regional framework supporting Project Ireland 2040 programme for change. As a regional plan it ensures coordination between the NPF, the NDP and the Cork City Development Plan. The central themes of the RSES are place making, climate action and sustainable economic growth.

2.13 The RSES is based on a regional settlement hierarchy. The strategy contains the Cork Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan (MASP) which provides a guide for investment and sustainable development across the Cork Metropolitan Area up to 2031. The MASP reinforces Cork City’s role as an international centre of scale to complement Dublin, targeting 50-60% population growth by 2040.

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This growth strategy uniquely positions Cork Metropolitan Area as: • A principal complementary location to Dublin with a strong international role; • A primary driver of economic and population growth in the region; • A Metropolitan Area strengthening the vibrancy of its City Centre; • A compact metropolitan area with increased regional connectivity; and • A City Region focusing growth on the delivery of sustainable transport patterns. 2.14 The RSES supports investment and planning in Cork City and Metropolitan Area, including: • Best practice regeneration of City and Tivoli Docks to deliver compact metropolitan growth; • Investment in initiatives that deliver housing growth, increasing affordable housing and tenure mix, tackling vacancy and enhancing communities; • Strengthen social and community development driven through the Local Economic Community Plan (LECP), Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) and RAPID initiatives;

• Investment in Cork as a Learning City including additional delivery of strategic educational and innovation infrastructure as enabling assets within the city; • Capital investment in the TEN-T network and continued investment in the Port of Cork’s Strategic Development Plan including the relocation of the Port to Ringaskiddy; • Delivery of a network of large city parks and smaller green areas throughout the metropolitan area and inner-city areas; and • The continued development of Cork Airport as an international airport and the provision of high- quality digital connectivity within the region. 2.15 These and other aims are set out in a large number of Regional Policy Objectives (RPOs) which this Development Plan will aim to achieve.

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Strategic Objectives for Growth

2.16 This Plan sets out nine Strategic Objectives (SO’s) to guide the future development of Cork City. The Core Strategy focuses on the SO of Compact Liveable Growth. The remaining SO’s each have an individual chapter setting out specific development objectives and actions. Given their nature, all nine SO’s are not solely the responsibility of Cork City Council to implement.

The shape of the City’s future development will be a result of the joint efforts of Cork City Council, residents, stakeholders, developers, Government Departments and State and local development agencies, along with a range of other stakeholders in the city. The Plan’s 9 SO’s are summarised below, with the full text of each individual SO included in their relevant chapter within the Plan.

SO 1: Compact Liveable Growth Deliver compact growth that achieves a sustainable 15-minute city of scale providing integrated communities and walkable neighbourhoods, dockland and brownfield regeneration, infill development and strategic greenfield expansion adjacent to existing city. SO 2: Delivering Homes and Communities Provide densities that create liveable, integrated communities by using a mix of house types, tenures and sizes linked to active and public transport. Provide amenities, services and community and cultural uses to enable inclusive, diverse and culturally rich neighbourhoods. SO 3: Transport and Mobility Integrate land-use and transportation planning to increase active travel (walking and cycling) and public transport usage. Enable the key transport projects in the Cork Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (CMATS) delivering multi-modal usage and smart mobility, accessible for all. SO 4: Climate and Environment Transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable future. Implement climate mitigation and adaptation measures that reduce our carbon footprint including sustainable energy consumption, sustainable transport, circular economy, green construction and flood risk mitigate and adaptation. SO 5: Green & Blue Infrastructure, Open Space and Biodiversity Manage and enhance green and blue infrastructure, to protect and promote biodiversity, ecology and habitat connectivity, protect natural areas, enhance landscape character and maritime heritage, and manage access to green and blue spaces that provide recreation, amenity and natural areas. SO 6: Economy and Employment Be a national and regional economic driver delivering strong, resilient, diverse and innovative economic growth. Focus new employment in strategic areas across the city. Enhance Cork’s role as a city of learning, using knowledge and talent as a key enabler for city and economic growth.

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SO 7: Heritage, Arts and Culture Protect and enhance the unique character and built fabric of the city its neighbourhoods, urban towns and settlements by caring for Protected Structures, archaeological monuments and heritage, Architectural Conservation Areas and intangible heritage. Identify, protect, enhance and grow Corks unique cultural heritage and expression in an authentic and meaningful way. Ensure Cork’s heritage, culture and arts are celebrated and developed to create an attractive, vibrant and inclusive place to live, work, study and visit. SO 8: Environmental Infrastructure Ensure efficient and sustainable use of water services, enhance water quality and resource management. Manage waste generation and treatment and support the principles of the circular economy. Improve air quality and promote pro-active management of noise. Enable the sustain- able delivery of digital infrastructure, renewable energy and environmental improvements. SO 9: Placemaking and Managing Development Develop a compact liveable city based on attractive, diverse and accessible urban spaces and places. Focus on enhancing walkable neighbourhoods that promote healthy living, wellbeing and active lifestyles, where placemaking is at the heart. Follow a design-led approach with innovative architecture, landscape and urban design that respects the character of the city and neighbourhood.

Table 2.1: Strategic Objectives for Cork City 2022-2028.

Cork City 2040

setting out bold new growth targets reflecting the city’s critical role in enhancing Ireland’s metropolitan profile. To effectively fulfil this role, the NPF requires the city to have ambitious vision that maximises its potential as an internationally competitive and sustainable growth city in a best practice European context.

2.17 The ambitious growth targets set out for Cork City in Project Ireland 2040 require long term planning. This includes active land management, long term investment, climate action, infrastructure led development, integrated community development and enhanced heritage, culture and arts. Delivering these will require sustained co-ordination between many city, regional and state stakeholders. National Planning Framework Growth Targets 2.18 The extension of Cork City Councils administrative boundary in May 2019, expanded the city by five times its previous size, increasing its population to 210,853 persons. Cork is now defined as a medium sized European Port City, comparable to Malmo, Bilboa, Aarhus and Bremerhaven in terms of scale and function. The NPF recognises this status,

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Figure 2.5: Population Growth in Cork City.

2.19 The NPF targets 60% population growth for Cork City by 2040. This will result in an additional 125,000 people living in the City within 20 years. A breakdown of this shows how the City will need to achieve 10% - 17% population growth within each of the next four census periods.

Over the last 30 years, Cork City has grown at a lower rate of 2% - 5%. Significant planning and investment will be required over a sustained period to achieve the NPF growth target by 2040.

1991 2040 Cork City * 178,716 184,502 191,277 195,478 200,373 210,853 222,333 261,040 286,178 335,853 %Change – 3.2% 3.7% 2.2% 2.5% 5.2% 5.6% 17.4% 9.4% 17.4% 1996 2002 2006 2011 2016 2022 2028 2031

Figure 2.6: Population Trends and Targets, 1991-2040 (*Best estimates based on current boundary)

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The regeneration of City Docks and Tivoli Docks along with other brownfield sites are important in delivering compact liveable growth in Cork City by 2040. Expansion of residential, employment, cultural and community uses in the City Centre and City Suburbs will increase vibrancy in existing neighbourhoods and decrease underutilised buildings and sites. 2.22 The delivery of Light Rail Transit (LRT) and its interaction with the Lee to Sea greenway, suburban rail network, orbital bus routes and strategic bus corridors will deliver transport orientated development in key areas such as Blackpool, Ballyvolane, Mahon and South Ballincollig and an integrated multimodal city transport system. Longer term strategic planning and delivery of growth in areas such as Tramore Road, Stoneview and the lands located between the City and Ballincollig will further enhance the delivery of growth in Cork City and align with the NPF’s strategic objectives and population growth targets out to 2040. 2.23 Employment-led growth is central to delivering sustainable and ambitious growth targets envisaged for the City. This is also a core theme of the National Planning Framework as set out under National Strategic Outcome 6 which seeks to deliver a strong economy supported by enterprise, innovation and skills.

Growth Targets 2040

2.20 Cork City seeks to achieve ambitious 2040 growth targets in a way that delivers a high quality of life for all residents. This involves long term strategic planning and proactive land management to sustain investment and growth, tackle climate change, care for community and neighbourhood development and protect and enhance the City’s natural and built heritage. The Cork City 2040 Concept Plan sets out longer-term context for the delivery of land use planning and management. While not a statutory land use plan, it applies relevant RSES and NPF targets, policies and objectives up to 2040 to provide a framework for the delivery of the ambitions for Cork. It focuses on how Cork City can best drive the development of the Southern Region and in particular the Cork Metropolitan Area. The Concept Plan will be further articulated in future City Developments Plans. 2.21 Figure 2.8 illustrates how the concept plan is intended as a spatial framework to provide clearer pathways for longer term growth within an existing and emerging network of neighbourhoods and areas that make up Cork City.

| DRAFT TRANSPORT STRATEGY

CORK METROPOLITAN AREA

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EXAMPLE OF MULTI-MODALINTERCHANGE AT KENT STATION WITH BRIDGE ACCESS TO THE SOUTH DOCS

Figure 2.7: Cork City 2040.

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It is estimated that approximately 35,000 new jobs will be generated by the planned population growth targets of 125,000 additional people up to 2040. Geographically, lands have been zoned to accommodate the future demand in a manner that positively responds to wider challenges that includes targeting neighbourhoods where there are relatively high levels of unemployment,

creating inclusive and sustainable communities and anticipating likely market trends over the period to 2028. See Chapter 7 Economy and Employment for further details. There is currently a jobs shortfall in the allocation of employment lands within the North western suburbs. Over the Plan period it is intended to identify further employment lands that can fulfil the target jobs requirement.

DUBLIN

LIMERICK

UPPER GLANMIRE

BLARNEY

GLANMIRE

LIMERI

KILEENS

reas

TOWER

Cork City 2040

BALLYVOLANE

WATERFORD

BLACKPOOL

KERRY PIKE

TIVOLI DOCKS

CITY DOCKS

CITY

HOLYHILL

CENTRE

WILTON City Consolidation and Expansion Areas Hinterland Compact Growth Urban town City Hinterland Settlements

BALLINCOLLIG

MAHON

TOWER

SOUTH BALLINCOLLIG

DOUGLAS

KERRY

Cork City 2040

Long term Growth Areas Consolidate Urban Edge

LIMERICK

District Centre Urban town Centres

WEST CORK

Cork City 2040

BLARNEY City Consolidation and Expansion Areas Hinterland Compact Growth Urban town City Hinterland Settlements

BALLINCOLL

Kent Station Public Transport Hub

Cork City 2040

New Train Station Cork International Airport

© O r d n a n c e S u r v e y I r e l a n d

KILEENS SOUTH BALLINCOLL

City Consolidation and Expansion Areas Hinterland Compact Growth Urban town City Hinterland Settlements

Long term Growth Areas Consolidate Urban Edge KERRY

Indicative Transport Routes

TOWER

Lee to Sea Greenway Northern Distributor Road Southern Distributor Road Light Rail Transport Suburban Rail Transport

KERRY PIKE District Centre Urban town Centres

Long term Growth Areas Consolidate Urban Edge

Kent Station Public Transport Hub

New Train Station Cork International Airport

National Road upgrade projects Northern Ring Road

District Centre Urban town Centres

HOLYHIL

BALLINCOLLIG

Kent Station Public Transport Hub Figure 2.8: Cork City 2040 Concept Plan.

Indicative Transport Routes

New Train Station Cork International Airport

Lee to Sea Greenway Northern Distributor Road Southern Distributor Road Light Rail Transport Suburban Rail Transport

SOUTH BALLINCOLLIG

WILTON

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Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028 I Volume 1 Indicative Transport Routes KERRY

Light Rail Transport Suburban Rail Transport

National Road upgrade projects Northern Ring Road

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