The Port of Cork Company is a commercial semi-state company and is a Tier 1 Port in the National Ports Policy (March 2013). It is identified as a Core Port in the TEN-T network and has been awarded grant assistance under the TEN-T framework and Connecting European Framework to support the development and expansion of its port facilities.

In May 2015 the Port of Cork was granted permission by An Bord Pleanála for the extension and redevelopment of its existing port facilities at Ringaskiddy, under the Strategic Infrastructure provisions of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). The development will provide for the relocation of container activities from Tivoli, Cork to Ringaskiddy and included the development of two new berths; the extension of an existing deep-water berth; a new pontoon to facilitate Ro-Ro traffic; dredging works; surfacing for operational areas; amendments to the access road and internal road network; and the provision of a replacement pier and community facility.

MH Planning have acted as planning consultants on this project since 2009. Significant preparatory work was undertaken to develop a robust and sustainable planning application, including a review of the Port’s Strategic Development Plan, engaging with the Regional Planning Authority and Cork County Council on the planning policy framework for the proposal and undertaking detailed planning assessment of alternatives.

MH Planning was responsible for advising on, preparing and co-ordinating the submission of the SID application to An Bord Pleanála, including pre-planning consultations; inputting to the Environmental Impact Statement and providing expert witness statements to the Oral Hearing. We continue to offer strategic planning advice to the Port of Cork in relation to compliance with planning conditions and EIS mitigations commitments and proposals for modifications to the permitted development.