2442982
Permission for the construction of a 5-storey tourist accommodation building at No.9 Fitton Street, Cork City, and all associated ancillary site works. The development proposed consists of the construction of a 5-storey building consisting of 220 no. bedspaces of tourist accommodation. A cafe servicing the scheme (and the public) is proposed on the ground floor with 56 no. bedspaces proposed on 3 of the upper floors (first, second and third floor) and 52 bedspaces proposed on the fourth floor. The building will front onto Fitton Street with pedestrian access provided at this location. Permission is also sought for the above as well as for the provision of bin storage, drainage, plant, and all associated site development works.
Core Planning Reasoning
The Inspector recommends granting permission for the 5-storey scheme, concluding that the height is consistent with modern surrounding developments and national compact growth policies, and that a reduction to 4 storeys is unnecessary and would undermine the project's viability.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed 5-storey development is consistent with the height and scale of contemporary developments in the immediate vicinity (ranging from 5-6 storeys) and adheres to national objectives for urban consolidation.
- The visual impact on the South Channel Architectural Conservation Area (ACA) and sensitive historic receptors is considered moderate and acceptable, as the high-quality design successfully regenerates a derelict infill site.
- A reduction to 4 storeys would negatively impact the commercial viability of providing budget-friendly tourist accommodation in a central location without yielding significant additional conservation benefits.