Murnane & O'Shea Developments Ltd has commenced construction on 95 new homes in County Cork following a ceremonial sod-turning event which was attended by An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin.

Located at Glenbride, Kilnap, Old Mallow Road, the housing scheme, in partnership with Cork City Council, will provide 86 affordable homes for sale via the council's 'Local Authority Affordable Purchase' scheme and a further nine homes as social housing.

The affordable homes will be available for sale at approximately 20% below open market value in the third quarter of this year, with the first homes being handed over to successful applicants in early 2026.

The support of the Taoiseach, Minister, and the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage, has been invaluable in the delivery of this project, which will ultimately deliver over 520 new homes in various phases in the coming years.

-- Advertisement --

During his visit, Taoiseach Micheál Martin also visited the historic scheme at Millfield Cottages, Blackpool, to officiate at the formal opening of 18 new social housing two-bedroom terraced homes which had been derelict for over a decade in a prime location in Blackpool, close to Blackpool Shopping Centre.

These cottages were originally built to house workers from the nearby Sunbeam Wolsey Textile plant, a major employer in the area from the 19th century until its closure in 1995. The new Millfield Cottages is a reimagining of the original charm and character of the site through the thoughtful and respectful design of project architects, Altirí Architects. The scheme is delivered in partnership with Respond Housing who are managing the development on Cork City Council's behalf.

Discussing the projects, An Taoiseach, Micheál Martin said: "I am delighted to visit these very important developments providing social and affordable homes in the heart of Cork. It Is a pleasure to officially open the new homes at Millfield Cottages in Blackpool, a great example of how we can transform derelict sites into much needed homes. 

"In addition, the 95 mixed tenure homes starting construction in Glenbride will meet the needs of many families in this city. I want to thank Respond, Cork City Council and all those involved in bringing these projects to life."