Planning approval has been granted to transform a former office building in Cork city into new modern housing.

The scheme on Blackrock Road, Springville House, will comprise of up to 35 residential units across four storeys. It will include four single storey one-bed houses, 15 two-bed apartments and 16 one bed apartments.

Cork City Council has brought forward the scheme for people wishing to downsize, in order to free up existing local authority homes that are under occupied. Residents who own their own homes can also avail of a downsizing scheme in operation for private home owners, where Cork City Council acquires private homes subject to eligibility criteria. Older persons eligible for the scheme are persons aged sixty years and over. 

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Cork City Council Director of Housing, Brian Geaney said: "This is another first for Cork City and Ireland; conversion of an outdated commercial / office facility to a modern residential building to assist in tackling social housing demand. The proposed scheme will provide much needed homes under the Rebuilding Ireland Action Plan for Housing and Homelessness and will help contribute to dealing with the pent up demand for housing in the city. It is an innovative and sustainable housing project near the city centre."

Construction work is expected to begin later this year.

(CM/MH)