Waterford council gives go-ahead for 350 homes in city's North Quays Development

The development also includes office accommodation, a 160-bedroom hotel and conference centre, a 163-room aparthotel, and retail units

Public plazas, a riverside boardwalk and a greenway will also be constructed at the Waterford North Quays Development.

Waterford City and County Council has granted planning permission for 350 new homes as part of the first phase of the €200m North Quays Development.

Permission has been granted to Harcourt Developments for a major residential project, which also includes office accommodation, a 160-bedroom hotel and conference centre, a 163-room aparthotel, and retail units.

Public plazas, a riverside boardwalk and a greenway will also be constructed in what the council describes as “high-quality public realm spaces”.

Sean McKeown, chief executive of Waterford City and County Council, said granting planning permission was “ a momentous day” for Waterford and the wider region.

"The North Quays Infrastructure Project is progressing well, with the impressive integrated transport hub on Frank Cassin Wharf, the construction of the five access bridges over the rail corridor and new greenway, and the much-anticipated arrival of the sustainable transport bridge from Belgium next month," Mr McKeown said.

“This next phase of development on the North Quays is hugely significant as it amplifies the potential for jobs, investment, and residential and commercial development.” 

The direct benefit to Waterford of the investment in the site is anticipated to be in excess of €350m over the next six years, the council highlighted, with 200 people employed during construction and upwards of 1,500 jobs to be created following completion of phase one of the development.

Construction of the private development is expected to begin later this year.

Harcourt Developments

Harcourt Developments is a Dublin-based property development and management company with a broad portfolio of projects, which includes Belfast’s Titanic Quarter, widely considered Northern Ireland’s most important regeneration project.

The council believes that Harcourt’s experience in developing Belfast’s Titanic Quarter will be “invaluable” in delivering the North Quays development, which comprises “many similar elements”.

The primary objective of the North Quays is to attract further investment in Waterford city from indigenous and multinational companies, expanding the tourism and hospitality sectors as well as increasing the housing stock.

The Land Development Agency is also engaging with Harcourt in respect of the residential elements of the project. 

Regeneration

These investments are integral in achieving the objectives set out in the National Planning Framework, which calls for the rapid expansion of Waterford city to over 85,000 people. The strategic development places a significant emphasis on connecting the north and south quays.

A lead designer on the project, Stephen Shally at Douglas Wallace Consultants, said: "Our design is part of an ambitious masterplan for Waterford City, specifically crafted to create distinctive, memorable spaces that enrich the sense of place for residents and citizens. 

"The site layout, featuring interconnected civic plazas and the vibrant riverfront promenade, is designed to foster community interaction and enjoyment."

Architect Hugh Wallace commended the planners for giving the green light to the project.

"It aligns with the government’s goals for urban renewal and sustainable living while also establishing a new city centre north of the River Suir for the first time in Waterford’s history. 

"It will future-proof Waterford City and will enrich the lives of so many people living and working in the area. The granting of planning permission for this development is a truly pivotal moment for Waterford City's regeneration and growth.”