Set to be the tallest building in Ireland, permission granted for landmark tower in heart of Cork city.
Set to be the tallest building in Ireland, planning permission has been granted by Cork City Council for the proposed mixed-use development at the old Port of Cork site on Custom House Quay. Designed in conjunction with Gensler, the tower at Custom House Quay will be 140 metres or 34 storeys in height and will house a 241-bedroom five-star hotel.
The Port of Cork site is one of the most iconic sites within the city, at the confluence of the Northern and Southern Channel of the River Lee and identified as an ideal site for a Metropolitan Scale Landmark due to its unique and prominent location. This development has the potential to become a celebrated landmark for Cork that will radiate far beyond the city’s boundaries and become an iconic symbol for Cork as the Irelands Second City on the national and international stage.
Custom House Quay is to be opened as a public promenade leading through to the eastern head and around to the north side as a full loop around the headland. The proportion of the tower reflects the scale of the Bonded Warehouse. The warehouse’s 8|16 bay articulation is projected onto the eastern tower facade further aligning the proportions of the historic horizontal element with the new vertical element.
The historic Custom House will also be restored as part of the plan, as will the bonded warehouses which will be opened to public access for the first time. The existing buildings are made of monolithic stone and will contrast with the new tower which is light and transparent. The shape of the tower is reminiscent of a ship’s hull, in reference to the maritime character and heritage of the site.
The proposed development will deliver significant positive regeneration impacts for Cork. This includes an enhanced image and identity, being a catalyst for the regeneration of the City Centre and Docklands, the establishment of a new visitor destination and anchor in the centre, the conservation and reanimation of an iconic heritage ensemble at risk of dilapidation, and the creation of a new promenade and waterfront public space that will enrich the experience of the City.
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