Plans for more than 100 Blarney homes appealed to An Coimisiún Pleanála

Blarney Castle Estate, which objected to the homes, argued that the development, as a result of its proximity to Blarney Castle, would make it ideally suited for tourism-related development

Blarney Castle Estate also raised concerns about the scale of the plans

Recently green-lit plans for a large-scale residential development at the former site of Ireland’s first Turkish baths have been appealed to An Coimisiún Pleanála.

Developer OMD(C) Ltd sought permission in September last year to build 100 new homes on lands associated with the Former St. Ann's Hydropathic Establishment at St. Ann's Hill, Kilnamucky, Tower in Blarney.

The 100 units would comprise 63 houses, 23 apartments and 14 duplex units, as well as a crèche facility.

The scheme also includes plans for an additional 56 homes comprising a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom units, along with plans to restore the former Clock Tower structure and parkland, which served the former St. Ann’s Hydropathic Establishment.

Cork City Council approved the plans with 48 conditions, however, the future of the development will now be decided by the planning commission following several appeals.

Several objections were submitted in relation to the planning application, with the Tower Community Association citing concerns for a lack of walking infrastructure, traffic congestion, and an erosion of local heritage.

A spokesperson for the association said the subject site lies within an area of “significant national built and cultural heritage”.

Blarney Castle Estate also objected to the homes, raising concerns with the scale of the plans and argued that the development, as a result of its proximity to Blarney Castle, would make it ideally suited for tourism-related development.

The planning commission is due to decide on the development by October 26, 2026.