The plan provides ‘a strong framework for future housing delivery.’
Houses in Cobh(Image: Getty)
Cork County Council has today adopted a new development plan that aims to facilitate the construction of up to 50,000 new homes over the next ten years.
Large tracts of land across the county have been rezoned for residential use, following months of public engagement with communities and stakeholders. The plan will deliver a baseline of 38,370 new homes over the next decade, with the potential to deliver almost 13,000 more.
The new development plan was prepared in response to ministerial guidelines and aligns with the Government’s implementation of the National Planning Framework, which updated annual housing growth requirements for each planning authority in 2025.
The plan will ensure that Cork is well-positioned to accommodate projected population growth over the next 10 years while supporting the development of vibrant and sustainable communities.
Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Bernard Moynihan welcomed the adoption of the new development plan, but emphasised that continued engagement of national agencies and utility providers will remain crucial for housing delivery.
Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, said the variation provides a strong framework for future housing delivery.
“This variation represents an important strategic response to national housing policy and projected population growth in Cork County, reflecting a request from Central Government,” she said.
“By increasing residential zoning capacity and planning ahead for future demand, the Council is creating the conditions necessary to support the delivery of new homes in the right locations and in a sustainable manner. The adoption of this variation reinforces our commitment to delivering balanced growth and strong communities throughout the county.”
Variation No. 1 of the Cork County Development Plan represents a major strategic step in addressing the housing needs of Ireland’s largest local authority by geographic area. It will enable a more integrated and strategic approach to providing essential social and community infrastructure in the future.
The process was informed by extensive public and stakeholder engagement. A Chief Executive’s Report on the submissions received was subsequently prepared and considered by the elected members as part of the decision-making process.
Further information on Variation No. 1 to the Cork County Development Plan 2022–2028 is available on the council’s website here.