Construction BUSINESS

Development management firm Tower Holdings Group has released details for the redevelopment and revitalisation of the historic Custom House Quay site in Cork. The development, which will link the peninsula to the center of the city while introducing a large public realm for the first time in the history of the site, will feature the restoration of the existing landmark structures and the introduction of a new 34 story hotel tower with unparalleled panoramic views across the city.

The proposal will not only revitalise and enhance the site, but offer a programme of cultural events, retail, food and beverage businesses, office space and recreational areas which will be fully accessible to the public, in an effort to create a realm for the wider community. The restoration of the custom house will include a new façade over the building’s northern end to create balance to the previous extension on the south. The bonded warehouses will be opened up for public access, which will include retail units for local entrepreneurs, and a unique cultural experience for locals and tourists alike, representing Cork’s rich history as a port. The new visitor experience will be completed with the introduction of a micro-distillery at the eastern end of the site.

Tower Holdings Director of Operations (Ireland) Conor Lee said: “Custom House Quay will be the centrepiece of Cork’s new business district. For the first time ever, this entire area will be fully opened up to the people of Cork. As the tallest building in Ireland, the hotel itself will be a focal point for the city rising. Equally, the design is aimed at preserving the existing infrastructure for future generations through the addition of new tourism and commercial offerings. We firmly believe that Custom House Quay will rival similar offerings in other cities around the globe, and help contribute to the future success of the city in the same way that the Port of Cork did for centuries.”

Designed by world renowned architecture firm, Gensler, in association with Henry J Lyons as local architects, the iconic new hotel tower will be carefully incorporated to complement the old Custom House and bonded warehouses. The hotel accommodations will offer spa, swimming pool and gym facilities. A symbol not only for the City of Cork but an icon for Ireland as a prominent modern European destination, at its very top the tower will feature a sky bar and restaurant where visitors can enjoy local produce cuisine while taking in panoramic view of Cork city.

Marco Gamini, Design Director at Gensler, said: “We are honoured to be part of the team re-imagining and redefining this historic and prominent location in Cork into the future heart of the city. Whilst maintaining and enhancing the original architectural intentions of this heritage site and its historic past, the addition of a new landmark tower, will help create an icon for the city, helping secure its future.”

Pat Hogan, Director at Henry J Lyons said they were delighted to work in partnership with Gensler and look forward to working with Tower Holdings to deliver a new landmark for Cork.

The Custom House Quay project will see the creation of 350 to 400 construction jobs in the short term, with employment on the completed site expected to be in excess of 800 people across hotel, retail, tourism and commercial offices.

Planning permission for the new development is expected to be lodged later this month.