Developers refused permission for 17 apartments in Cork City appeal decision to planning commission

Developers challenge the council’s refusal of a 17-apartment scheme in Gurranabraher as a separate city-centre clinic wins approval

Developers Michael and Siobhan O'Regan sought planning permission to demolish Rebrona Court House, located near Blarney Street. Pic; Larry Cummins

A refusal by Cork City Council for almost 20 new apartments on the northside has been appealed to the planning commission.

Developers Michael and Siobhan O’Regan sought planning permission to demolish Rebrona Court House, located on St Theresa’s Road and Ballymacthomas St in Gurranabraher, to make way for 17 apartments.

The apartments were to comprise a mix of one and two-bedroom units and included ancillary works such as pedestrian access, landscaping, drainage and bike stores.

However, the city council refused the plans, stating the proposal represented excessive density and overdevelopment of the site.

It added that the developers had not demonstrated how the apartments would protect the visual amenities of the area, and also noted that the plans did not include a valid stormwater drainage strategy.

The plans have now been appealed by Mr and Ms O’Regan to An Coimisiún Pleanála, which is due to decide on the proposed development by April 1, 2026.

Meanwhile, a new facial aesthetics clinic has been approved for Cork city centre by Cork City Council.

Dr Roghayed Alizadeh sought planning permission to use Unit 3C of the Cornmarket Centre on Cornmarket Street as a cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics clinic.

The proposed works include three practice rooms, a decontamination room, a kitchenette, toilets, two labs and a reception area.