Cork council to seek plans for landmark building’s future on Lapps Quay

Ideas are being sought from the open market to help breathe new life into a city-owned historic former bank building.

Cork’s city councillors agreed last night for a new process to start next month which will invite proposals for the use of the landmark former Cork Savings Bank property on Lapps Quay and which could see it return to civic use.

The 7,600 sq ft property, which includes No 1 Lapps Quay and No 16 Parnell Place and which served as a Permanent TSB branch until its closure in 2012, was acquired by the city in July 2014.

It was seen as a strategic acquisition of a protected structure. It has been suggested that it could be redeveloped as a museum with a sporting or maritime theme.

In an update report last night, councillors were told that ideas will be sought from next month for its future use under a process which will be overseen by an independent sales agent.

Council chief executive Ann Doherty said an assessment panel will consider the proposals under headings including the financial offer, the appropriateness of the proposed use, as well as the track record of those involved and their financial capacity to deliver and manage the redevelopment of buildings of this importance and type.

Several councillors expressed concern that the building could be sold.

“When this process goes in train, I have real serious concerns that this building could fall into private hands. I would appeal to the chief executive to keep it under public ownership,” said Cllr Ted Tynan (Workers Party).

Cllr John Buttimer (FG) said a public private partnership would probably deliver the longest-lasting benefit to the building, and increase footfall in the area.

Ms Doherty said she has an open mind on its future ownership. “We all want to see the building developed but we need to be pragmatic about how that happens,” she said.

“The resources are not there to meet all the needs but I am satisfied that this process will add value to the building. If it was to be sold, it would have to have an investment benefit.”

Lord Mayor Cllr Chris O’Leary (SF) said whatever happens, any proposed disposal of the property will be subject to the approval of the city’s 31 councillors.

Chris O’Leary

Designed by architects T and K Deane in 1839, built for the Cork Savings Bank for £11,000, and opened for business in 1842, the building is an important part of Cork’s architectural heritage.

The feature facade was built with limestone from the Ballinlough quarries and it represents one of the finest limestone buildings of its type in the country.

Located on a corner site overlooking the south channel of the River Lee, it occupies a prominent position in the commercial heart of the city and retains many of its original interesting internal and external features.

The building boasts a three-storey banking hall, with offices and a large boardroom.