Planning Permission Granted for 345 New Homes in Wilton, Cork City
Facing a critical housing shortage, Cork City takes a significant step forward with the recent planning permission approval for a large-scale residential scheme.
The Land Development Agency (LDA) has secured planning permission for a housing scheme approval consisting of 345 affordable homes on a 2.61-hectare site in Wilton, located on the former ESB lands along Sarsfield Road, just over 4km from Cork city centre. This development will provide a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments distributed in three blocks, rising up to six storeys, along with 16 townhouses, totaling 329 apartments and 16 houses. The design integrates community facilities including a crèche, outdoor play areas, and landscaped podium gardens to enhance residents’ quality of life.
Accessibility is a core part of the project with new pedestrian and cycle paths connecting to Cardinal Court and Sarsfield Road, encouraging sustainable transport modes. The scheme includes 148 car parking spaces and an impressive 503 bicycle spaces—reflecting a commitment to reducing reliance on cars. Conveniently, the site is adjacent to Wilton Shopping Centre and within walking or cycling distance of Cork University Hospital, Munster Technological University, University College Cork, schools, and other amenities.
The project was recently approved despite some local concerns regarding environmental impact and potential flood-risk development, but no material contravention of planning policy was found. The decision follows a thorough review by planning authorities, and the An Bord Pleanála decision marks a key milestone in addressing Cork’s housing supply shortages.
Construction is slated to start in 2027 after tendering and appointment of a building contractor, with the first homes expected to be ready for occupation in 2029. This development forms part of the LDA’s broader ambitions in Cork, which include the imminent launch of 267 homes on the former St. Kevin’s Hospital site in Shanakiel and a forthcoming planning application for 147 homes at Anglesea Terrace.
This latest approval demonstrates an integrated approach to urban development by combining affordable housing, enhanced connectivity, and community amenities. It responds directly to the housing demand in Cork while aligning with sustainable development goals and local infrastructure capacities.
As Cork’s population continues to grow, this planning permission approval for Wilton represents a significant contribution to meeting the city’s housing needs and revitalising a strategic urban site with careful consideration of environmental and social factors.
Originally reported on Sat, 18 Oct 2025 00:12:21 +0000. Full story