Plans to develop 265 new social and affordable homes in Cork city have taken a key step forward.

The Land Development Agency (LDA) is progressing with the housing plans at the former St Kevin's Hospital lands. When complete, the development will feature a mixture of one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom townhouses, duplexes and apartments.

Enabling works have officially begun at the site, and will include the erection of a secure boundary around the site and the demolition of non-protected structures. This will take a number of months.

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Speaking during a visit to the site, Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien said: "It's hugely significant and heartening to see enabling works in progress on this important piece of State-owned land. Not alone will this LDA project deliver 265 much-needed social and affordable homes for Cork City, but it will do so while transforming and regenerating 14 acres of unused, derelict property into a strong, sustainable community with vital public transport infrastructure.

"Increasing the supply of new homes, funding the LDA to strategically develop public lands for affordable and social housing in city and town centres, tackling dereliction and building sustainable communities are all key elements of the Housing for All plan. This compact and innovative housing development at St Kevin's is an encouraging example of what we can expect from other LDA projects into the future."

The enabling works will allow the LDA to complete the tender process for the appointment of a main contractor for the delivery of homes to the site, with the first homes available in 2024.