Marina Market set for multi-million euro investment after planning green light
The market, which regularly attracts large crowds, opened during the pandemic on the site the site of the former Southern Fruits Distribution Company warehouse at Centre Park Road. Picture: Cian O'Regan.
Cork's popular Marina Market has finally been given a planning green light from the city council, paving the way for its continued operation in the docklands area.
It is understood the venue will undergo a substantial multi-million euro investment now that planning has been secured.
This was its second bid for planning permission after having its first attempt turned down by Cork City Council late last year.
The market, which regularly attracts large crowds, opened during the pandemic on the site the site of the former Southern Fruits Distribution Company warehouse at Centre Park Road. However, it had been operating without planning permission throughout that time.
CPR Properties, which lodged the two planning bids, said it was surprised the first was turned down and submitted further information and clarifications with its second bid. On the most recent application, the Health and Safety Authority said it had no objections to the development.
In a planning statement, it was said that the city council should “embrace development proposals which will add to the unique selling point and quality of life offering of the city”.
Planners on behalf of CPR Properties also described it as a Cork “phenomenon” that would attract visitors to the city, while not taking away from the offering of the city centre.
A spokesperson for Marina Market said they are delighted to receive planning permission and look forward to providing Cork with an urban market that will be on par and hopefully better than the best any European city has to offer.
"We have to thank all involved in the process, particularly Cork City Council, who showed exceptional vision and were thorough and fair to all concerned at all times.
"But most of all, we have to thank the people of Cork for taking us to their hearts and making the Marina Market the success it is and will continue to be in the years ahead," the spokesperson added.
