Residents want say on Ispat development
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.”
The island, linked by bridge to Ringaskiddy, is owned by the Department of Defence and is home to the Naval Service headquarters and National Maritime College. It is a short distance from the country’s first proposed toxic waste incinerator, planning permission, which is the subject of a judicial review sought by local residents.
Last night, Mr Brennan said locals will not be accepting any trade-off from the Government in return for their backing of incinerator plans by Indaver Ireland, a private waste management company.
“We’re awaiting hearing of a judicial review and we’re also seeking one against the EPA for giving a licence for the incinerator.”
He said residents have also yet to be consulted on plans for a bridge link from Ringaskiddy to a proposed new prison on Spike Island.
Mr Martin insisted the plan for Haulbowline was not a trade-off for residents.
“The whole Ringaskiddy area is predominantly manufacturing but we have an opportunity here for a mix of tech industries using offices, residential and tourist-related facilities in a very attractive site in the lower harbour,” he said.
Cork County Council welcomed the proposals and a spokesperson said it looks forward to future discussions on the site’s development.
