Top executive to head Mallow redevelopment

GREENCORE has appointed a top business executive to head its €500 million redevelopment project for the former sugar factory site in Mallow, which includes proposals for the creation of 1,000 new jobs.

The group announced yesterday that Redmond O’Donoghue, non-executive director and former chief executive of Waterford Wedgwood plc, will be the chairman of the Mallow-West development board.

Mr O’Donoghue is chairman of the governing body of Waterford Institute of Technology and a former chairman of Bord Fáilte (now Fáilte Ireland).

He will liaise with both the public and private investment communities and local interests to deliver a plan for the enterprise aspects of the Mallow-West plan.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to participate in such an exciting project, which represents an unrivalled opportunity for Mallow and north Cork to create significant employment in a properly planned mixed use re-development,” he said.

Greencore is currently working with Cork County Council in preparing a masterplan for the 398 acre former sugar factory site.

Main elements being proposed by Greencore are the creation of 1,000 new jobs in enterprise, technology and commercial zones. Mixed sport and recreational amenities on 149 acres, the provision of a 45 acre wildlife conservation area and the development of residential units are also being planned.

The development of a hotel and championship golf course are other proposed features.