Cork County Council has adopted Variation No. 1 to the Cork County Development Plan 2022–2028, a significant step intended to accelerate housing delivery and guide sustainable growth across the county.

Approved by elected members at a Council meeting on Friday, the variation introduces additional residential land-use zoning and extra headroom in key towns and villages. It responds to Ministerial Guidelines issued under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act and aligns with the Government's implementation of the National Planning Framework: Housing Growth Requirements, published in July 2025, which updates annual housing targets for each planning authority.

The adopted change is designed to facilitate a baseline of 38,370 new homes over the next decade, with capacity to deliver up to 50,000, positioning the county to accommodate projected population increases while supporting vibrant, sustainable communities.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Bernard Moynihan, welcomed the decision: "The adoption of Variation No. 1 demonstrates Cork County Council's commitment to addressing housing need across our towns and villages while planning responsibly for future growth. This variation will provide greater capacity for housing development, helping communities to grow and thrive while ensuring that development is supported by proper planning and infrastructure over a 10-year horizon. I want to acknowledge the contribution of elected members, staff, stakeholders and members of the public who engaged with the process.

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"The continued engagement of national agencies and utility providers is now essential to support the work that Cork County Council has undertaken in this regard."

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell, said the variation establishes a robust framework for future housing delivery: "This variation represents an important strategic response to national housing policy and projected population growth in Cork County, reflecting a request from Central Government.

"By increasing residential zoning capacity and planning ahead for future demand, the Council is creating the conditions necessary to support the delivery of new homes in the right locations and in a sustainable manner. The adoption of this variation reinforces our commitment to delivering balanced growth and strong communities throughout the county."

Variation No. 1 is described as a major strategic step in addressing the housing needs of Ireland's largest local authority by geographic area, significantly expanding the supply of residentially zoned land and underpinning balanced, sustainable growth.

It also paves the way for a more integrated and strategic approach to delivering essential social and community infrastructure.

The process was shaped by extensive public and stakeholder engagement. A Chief Executive's Report on submissions received was prepared and considered by councillors as part of the decision-making process.

Further information on Variation No. 1 to the Cork County Development Plan 2022–2028 is available on the Council's Cork County Development Plan 2022–2028 webpage.