It’s set to be Cork’s most exciting new address.

Plans for 217 new cost-rental apartments in the city’s docklands have been broadly welcomed today, with construction expected to start at the beginning of 2025.

The development, ‘The Railyard Apartments,’ is a partnership between the JCD Group and Cork City Council and will include a mix of studios, one- to three-bed units, and between 40 and 50 units designed specifically for older people and those with a disability.

They will be located at the former Carey’s Tool Hire site on Albert Quay, where The Sextant bar once stood, and named in recognition of the site’s history as a terminus for the Cork, Blackrock and Passage Railway.

“It is hugely positive to see plans for a development of 217 units in the docklands, right in the heart of Cork City,” said Cork Chamber CEO, Conor Healy.

“This development, alongside the wider regeneration of the docklands, will play an important role in enhancing the fabric of the city, transforming the public realm, and bringing additional residents and businesses into the centre of Cork.

Sample image: Cork City Council

“JCD Group’s partnership with Cork City Council to progress the development highlights the importance of support from local authorities and central government in delivering much-needed housing units. Government schemes can play a pivotal role in securing new housing developments, particularly in the case of city-centre brownfields sites, such as the site now earmarked for development in the south docks.”

Mr Healy said he hoped today’s announcement will serve to stimulate further development as part of the rejuvenation of the docklands area, “but the Government must continue to prioritise supports and incentives for city-centre housing development as we look to Budget 2025.” he added.