Planning Permission Progress: Enterprise Ireland Pilots “Built to Innovate” Programme in Cork
Struggling with delayed housing scheme approvals? Enterprise Ireland’s new pilot aims to fast-track quality homebuilding in Cork.
Enterprise Ireland has launched its pilot of the Built to Innovate programme in Ballyvolane, Cork, targeting modern methods of construction to revolutionise planning permission processes and housing delivery. This initiative supports reducing build times and improving environmental impact through innovative construction techniques, addressing current bottlenecks in housing approvals.
The Ballyvolane Longview development serves as the pilot site, where over 700 homes are under construction, including private and social housing. Using factory-style on-site methods alongside offsite timber-frame manufacturing, the project exemplifies how housing schemes can achieve faster An Bord Pleanála decisions and potentially minimise issues related to flood-risk developments or material contraventions.
Enterprise Ireland’s Built to Innovate programme assists construction firms in adopting modern methods of construction (MMC), focusing on productivity, quality, and sustainability. CEO Jenny Melia highlights its role in helping Irish companies embrace new technologies that reduce costs and environmental impact while accelerating planning permission outcomes and overall delivery.
The pilot aligns with the Government’s Housing for All strategy, supporting infrastructure that meets current housing needs with energy-efficient, low-waste builds. As seen in Ballyvolane, the approach allows for rapid erection of structurally sound housing blocks while maintaining high standards to satisfy regulatory and environmental impact assessments.
Aside from improving construction speed and quality, the programme promotes digital tools and lean training to streamline permitting and build cycles. This could influence planning permission processes positively, helping overcome delays related to complex environmental and material considerations, ultimately benefiting communities awaiting housing.
By demonstrating these modern techniques at scale, Enterprise Ireland encourages construction businesses throughout Ireland to apply for funding and support to integrate innovation directly linked with better planning permission outcomes and reduced housing development risks.
Originally reported in on Mon, 03 Nov 2025 10:53:58 +0000. Full story
