Banner masking derelict hotel removed for safety reasons

A giant banner which hid a derelict hotel in the heart of Cork City for almost a year has been taken down for health and safety reasons.

City manager Tim Lucey confirmed the massive advertising sign, which was draped over the former Grand Parade Hotel, had to be removed because it was in danger of coming away from the building.

The almost four-storey high banner, which cost €2,611, was draped over the building in May — just before Queen Elizabeth visited the city centre.

But in response to a question from Cllr Emmet O’Halloran this week, Mr Lucey said the sign, which advertised the Triskel Christchurch cultural venue, came away from the building over the winter, that it was re-fixed, but came away again last month.

“This happens because of a wind tunnel created by the broken window panes in the property, causing the banner to pull away from its fixings,” he said.

“It is currently in storage and we are examining ways to reuse the signage.”

Mr O’Halloran has now called on the manager to examine the possibility of boarding up the windows to ensure the banner can be reattached.

“It is like sticking a plaster over a crack,” he said.

“But it was an effective short-term measure. Its absence has definitely affected the overall impression of the public realm in that area.”

He said redevelopment of the hotel is unlikely in the current economic circumstances and that these giant banners provide a “low-cost short-term, common-sense solution” to such derelict sites.

Mr Lucey said the council and Triskel had received “very positive feedback” on the use of the banner and that the council is examining other “temporary measures of this nature” should funding become available.

Meanwhile, the city has launched a painting grant scheme designed to improve the look of buildings along two of the city’s most historic streets.

The council’s Strategic Planning and Economic Development Directorate’s painting grant scheme will offer a financial incentive to building owners and occupiers in the Shandon Street and the North Main Street Architectural Conservation Area to encourage them to give their buildings a lick of paint.

Properties on Shandon Street, North Main Street, South Main Street, Castle Street, Kyle Street, and Adelaide Street are eligible.

Grants are available up to a maximum of 50% of the total cost of the external painting works up to a maximum of €600.

However, should a building owner carry out the painting themselves, the council pay for all the materials, up to a maximum of €300.

It is hoped if enough property owners get involved, the painting will help improve the character, appearance and overall attractiveness of these historic streets.

The closing date for receipt of applications is Wednesday, Apr 25, and those offered a grant will need to complete the works and submit a claim for payment by Aug 31.

It follows a successful scheme last year that helped to improve the appearance of over 15 buildings in the North Main Street and Cornmarket Street areas.

* More details about the painting scheme are available by emailing [e-mail] or by contacting 021-4924757.