More than 90 per cent of submissions on the multibillion-euro Cork south docks plan have been positive, with the project to transform the area now looking almost certain to come to fruition.
The local area plan for the south docks in Cork has been on display since July, and the public has until next Friday to lodge submissions. Cork City Council is urging people to inspect the proposals and have their say.
With a plan already in place for the north docks, this is the final phase to guide the redevelopment of the entire docklands region.
The south docks plan envisages the construction of 10,000 homes and apartments, with a target population of 20,000 and a working population of 25,000 by 2027.
Tiny "shoe-box" apartments have been banned and planners have set generous floor-space guidelines for developers to lure families back to the inner city.
Docklands officials say the plans have received a positive response, with 80 of the 100 submissions coming from the public as opposed to people with business interests.
Submissions have been particularly positive about plans to create a marina park. The installation of an arts and culture facility has also received support.
Included in the plan are at least four tower blocks, some of up to 22 storeys; three bridges over the River Lee; a light rail system running from the marina to the city centre (with the potential to extend to Douglas and Mahon); a park and riverside walkway; and schools, residential and shopping areas. The plan allows for a medical centre and third-level institution.
The south docks represents a major opportunity for Cork, occupying 190 hectares of land and four kilometres (2.5 miles) of waterfront. The regeneration will be a key element in the achievement of Cork's "gateway" status, as set out in the National Spatial Strategy. The plan is based on policies set out in the Cork City Development Plan 2004 and the recommendations of the Cork Docklands Economic Study 2007.
The plan can be viewed at www.corkcity.ie/docklands or in any Cork City Council public library. The council will receive a report on the submissions next month.