Harmonious solution to School of Music
The building on Union Quay is relatively new. It was purpose-built with best quality materials, extensive use of cut stone and hardwoods, and it is being used as I write.
Attending classes there it seemed positively palatial to me.
Several city institutions have successfully married new and old The Crawford Gallery, Cork City Library, the College of Commerce and City Hall itself. At a time when preservation orders are being placed on the crumbliest buildings in the city, it is hard to see why this fine building should be allowed to come crashing to the ground in the name of culture landfill, anyone?
Surely an extension could be built in the vacant space next door, saving a considerable amount.
Alternatively, sell the building and the valuable site and move to a more suitable site complete with parking (surely a necessity if you have a child with a cello or double bass) and room for further expansion long after the visitors of 2005 have departed.
Rosemarie O'Mahony,
35, Tramore Lawn,
Douglas Road,
Cork.
