We have plenty of them on Leeside.

Derelict properties are an eyesore in many Cork city streets and neighbourhoods, but now there’s a new drive to fix them up and repurpose them as much-needed housing.

If you’re wondering how it all works, Cork City Council is hosting a seminar chaired by award-winning architect and TV presenter, Hugh Wallace on the evolving challenges and supports available to bring vacant and derelict properties back to life this week.

The Government recently announced additional Croí Cónaithe grant funding to support the return into use of houses or buildings that are vacant for more than two years and were built before 2007. The refurbished building must be used as your permanent home.

The Urban Fabric event on Wednesday, May 17th at Nano Nagle Place, will include presentations from the Land Development Agency (LDA) on their approach to redeveloping the former St Kevins Hospital on Cork’s northside and Elliot Construction on its approach to the Moore’s Hotel building on Morrison’s Island.

Meitheal Architects will also offer some valuable insights into how it brings derelict units back into use, while Cork City Council representatives will explain how it is delivering housing on formerly derelict and vacant sites.

The Urban Fabric seminar begins at 9.30am. If you’d like to attend, register by emailing urbanfabric@corkcity.ie