Monday, 1st December 2014
- Decision by An Bord Pleanala to grant planning permission for Páirc Uí Chaoimh is great news for Cork.
I am delighted to learn that An Bord Pleanála has granted permission for the redevelopment. Páirc Uí Chaoimh is at the very heart of life in Cork and the improved stadium facilities and capacity will ensure its future is secure.
This €70 million project will have many benefits for Cork. It will update an aged stadium and deliver a modern sport and recreational facility. In terms of jobs it will create 400 direct and indirect jobs, giving a boost of €22 million to the Cork economy.
Government has committed to supporting this project with an investment of €30 million. As well as ensuring that the required finances are in place for this project, this commitment is an important capital investment in Cork. Together with the committed funding for an event centre, this Government is ensuring that large construction projects that will benefit our community for many years can go ahead.
Páirc Uí Chaoimh is special place and this new development will allow more people to experience it on those great match days. It is expected that work on this project will begin in February 2015. During construction it is imperative that the GAA and the builders engage meaningfully with residents to address their concerns as they arise. When the new stadium is complete a formal process of dialogue should be established so that any issues about the use of the facility can be dealt with at the earliest possible time.