A purpose built education and residential facility has opened in Cork city.

Located on Douglas Street, the Education Services Centre and Residential Facility is a joint investment between Cork City Council and the City of Cork VEC.

The development has been designed for adults returning to education and will assist adults participating in further education programmes.

Speaking at official opening, the city's Lord Mayor Brian Bermingham said: "There has been an ongoing substantial demand for social housing across the entire city.

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"This scheme will provide much needed accommodation and will help to meet this demand.

"In addition to this, the development will secure the rehabilitation of an important inner city site which has been derelict for many years and will provide a valuable addition to the social infrastructure of the area."

Education Officer Tom Daly said: "The provision of these additional facilities is practical proof of the partnership arrangements in place between the City of Cork VEC and Cork City Council in providing for the disparate needs of Cork city residents."

The joint initiative was assisted with funding and support from the Department of Education, the Department of Environment and Pobal.

(PR/JM)