Revamp to make eyesore corner site Kosy again
Scaffolding has gone up around the former Kosy Corner pub on Barrack St to facilitate the works as part of the anti-dereliction Cork’s Corners scheme.
A major regeneration project along the length of Barrack St was completed last week, but the condition of this building stuck out like a sore thumb.
Spokeswoman with Cork Corners project Helen O’Sullivan said she was delighted to finally see work start on the property, and she thanked the building owner for engaging with the city council over several months.
“I am particularly pleased that in this case, our number one focus for 2014, has availed of this opportunity to have a complete facelift, after being invited to do so,” she said.
“It is also fitting given that this building is in an area where the city council has been carrying out major road and footpath repairs, and it builds upon this.
“We hope that the project will bring a real lift to the street.”
Under the scheme, the city council has targeted for painting 12 key sites in prominent corner locations along the city’s historic spine. Council officials declined to say how much will be spent on the Barrack St site but confirmed they will cover up to two-thirds of the cost of the works.
The building owner has also committed to carrying out roof, chimney, window and door repairs next year. There are two tenancies in place at the site, and it is understood the pub licence has been sold.
However, there are hopes that the building may be converted to retail, depending on the opening of nearby Elizabeth Fort, and if a decision is taken to locate an events centre on the nearby Beamish and Crawford site.
Ms O’Sullivan said the scheme, which is being run by the council’s Strategic Planning and Economic Development Directorate (SPEDD), is designed to regenerate the city centre.
It is separate to the painting grant scheme which saw a doubling in numbers to 48 applicants this year. It is being funded as part of a Public Area Enhancement Scheme.
