Major new redevelopment planned for Haulbowline

Minister Micheal Martin announces plans to transform Haulbowline & the Lower Cork Harbour

Micheál Martin TD, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment today (Friday 28^th July 2006) announced that the Government has approved the establishment of an interdepartmental project team, led by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, to develop proposals for the redevelopment of Haulbowline Island. The project will transform Haulbowline and the lower Cork Harbour making it an attractive place to work, live and do business.

Commenting on the announcement Minister Martin said “The project envisaged for Haulbowline would be among the largest projects in the State since the development of the Financial Services Centre in Dublin”

Commenting further Minister Martin said “This 44 acre site has the potential to be the most attractive waterside site in Europe. Haulbowline has unique attractions including the National Maritime College and the UCC Marine Research Centre. These and its longstanding marine traditions, will form the basis for a complete redevelopment plan which will:

Transform the environment in Cork, particularly in the Lower Harbour

Dramatically improve the quality of life for the surrounding communities in Ringaskiddy and Cobh

Allow for a more balanced employment mix between manufacturing, office and leisure jobs in the lower Cork Harbour

Among the type of facilities it could include are

• 16,000 square metres of office space
• Approximately 200 apartments
• A Marina with up to 225 berths and a Club House
• A 300 bed Hotel
• A Maritime Museum
• A landmark building which would become a renowned feature for Cork as a whole.

Concluding Minister Martin said “ This project will be of huge significance not just to Haulbowline and the lower harbour area but to the city and county as a whole.”

ENDS

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