Former prison a ‘unique heritage site’

AN application for planning permission to build a new bridge between Spike Island in Cork Harbour and the mainland is expected to be lodged early next month.

However, the measure may face local opposition after Fine Gael TD David Stanton yesterday called for a public debate on the future of the site - he said it could be developed as a tourist attraction similar to Alcatraz in San Francisco.

The Prison Service has confirmed plans for a major new prison facility on Spike Island to replace the existing Cork Prison are “at an advanced stage”.