Residents want say on Ispat development

RESIDENTS have warned the Government they must be consulted on plans for the tourist, residential and commercial development of the former Irish Ispat steelworks in Cork harbour.

Enterprise Minister Micheál Martin revealed yesterday that the Government has commissioned a master plan for the 44-acre site on Haulbowline Island in Ringaskiddy. He said it represented a unique opportunity for private investment of several hundred million euro, with the potential to develop 16,000 square metres of office space, 200 apartments, a 225-berth marina, a 300-bedroom hotel and a maritime museum.

Ringaskiddy and District Residents Association chairman Braham Brennan said: “We have been told nothing about the plans for Haulbowline but, although this kind of development would be good in the area, we must have a voice in its development as it will affect our lives.”