State urged to buy former Bessborough lands to prevent development

The call follows a decision by An Bord Pleanála to refuse planning permission for 179 apartments

Markers for the graves of nuns on former Bessborough lands. An Bord Pleanála has said there are reasonable concerns in relation to the potential for a children’s burial ground on the lands. Picture: Larry Cummins

The State is facing renewed calls to acquire the former Bessborough mother and baby home estate in Cork to protect it from development.

It follows a decision by An Bord Pleanála yesterday to refuse planning permission to developers MWB Two for 179 apartments on a privately owned parcel of land on the landbank amid concerns about the possible existence of infant burials on the site.