Expansion of women’s refuge worries city’s residents

Inner city residents in Cork have expressed concerns about a €5m expansion plan at a women’s refuge, against the backdrop of rising levels of antisocial behaviour in the area.

People living in the city’s historic Middle Parish say the proliferation of up to 23 social services within a square mile of the local community hall has drawn certain types of people into the area and created a raft of problems, from discarded drug needles to increased traffic and parking issues.

The Middle Parish Residents’ Association said they fear the proposed expansion of Edel House, a residential centre for homeless women and girls run by the Good Shepherd Services on Grattan Street, will add to the problems.