Former retreat centre will not house refugees and is to open as a corporate B&B

Ennismore on Cork's northside was the scene of a protest some weeks ago

Additional buildings include a coach house and a courtyard with 10 buildings, as well as a courtyard.

A former retreat centre on Cork's northside that prompted a protest over rumours it would house refugees will now open instead as a corporate bed and breakfast.

The opening of Ennismore, the former Dominican Fathers’ retreat centre on the outskirts of Cork City, has been brought forward to allay the concerns of local people it may be used to house either international protection applicants or refugees, John McCarthy, who heads up the asset management team at the 39-bedroom Georgian property, said.