Plan for 124 apartments in Douglas

Douglas Development: Work Café Concept meets Housing Debate

Cork City Council is currently evaluating a proposed residential development in Douglas, a vibrant suburb of cork City. The project, spearheaded by Barry’s Field Ltd., aims to transform Barry’s Field, located on Carrigaline Road and Churchyard Lane, into a bustling mixed-use space.

A Unique Blend: Work Café Concept

A standout feature of the proposed development is the inclusion of a “work café” concept, designed to cater to both residents and the wider douglas community. This innovative space aims to bridge the gap between traditional coffee shops and co-working environments.

“This is a unique blend of a traditional local coffee shop and a co-working space,” explained a representative from Barry’s Field Ltd.”It’s a place where remote workers, notably residents of the development, can enjoy coffee, socialize, and get work done in a productive and inspiring atmosphere.”

Housing Mix Sparks Community Discussion

While the project proposes 124 apartments, comprising 50 one-bedroom, 64 two-bedroom, and 10 three-bedroom units, this mix deviates from the Cork City Development Plan (CCDP) 2022-2028. The CCDP recommends a diffrent balance of apartment sizes, calling for fewer one-bedroom units and more three-bedroom units.

Barry’s Field Ltd. argues that the proposed mix reflects a growing demand for smaller accommodation options, citing an aging population and shrinking family sizes as contributing factors. They contend that the current housing market necessitates a greater supply of one-bedroom apartments.

Awaiting a Decision: Impact on Douglas and Beyond

Cork City Council is expected to render a decision on the proposal by March 25th. The outcome of this decision will considerably impact the future development of Douglas and shape the broader housing landscape in Cork City.

This proposal highlights the ongoing challenges and opportunities in providing diverse and flexible housing options to meet the evolving needs of communities. It underscores the importance of open dialogue and collaboration between developers, policymakers, and residents to ensure that new developments truly serve the needs of the people who will call them home.

The proposed work café concept presents an intriguing prospect to foster a sense of community and provide flexible workspace options. Tho, the debate surrounding the housing mix emphasizes the need for careful consideration of demographic trends and community needs when planning future developments.

Douglas Development: Redefining Community at Barry’s Field

A proposed residential development in Douglas, Cork, is sparking vibrant discussion about the future of urban living. Barry’s Field Ltd.’s ambitious project, featuring 124 apartments and a unique “Work Café” concept, aims to foster a thriving community hub.

A Vision of Community Connection

Fiona Byrne, Project Manager at Barry’s Field Ltd., describes the vision as “a vibrant mixed-use space that caters to residents, workers, and the broader Douglas community.” The development, she explains, seeks to blend residential living with flexible workspace options, creating a seamless habitat for diverse needs.

“We envision a hub of activity, fostering connection and convenience,” Byrne shares.

Beyond the Coffee Shop: The “Work Café” Concept

At the heart of the development lies the “Work Café” concept, a space designed to bridge the gap between traditional coffee shops and dedicated coworking spaces. This hybrid environment offers residents, remote workers, freelancers, and students a place to connect, be productive, and enjoy a sense of community.

“Imagine a space that seamlessly merges the warmth of a local café with the functionality of a coworking space,” Byrne describes.

“Residents, remote workers, freelancers, and even students can enjoy a flavorful cup of coffee or lunch while benefiting from dedicated workspaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and a stimulating atmosphere. Our goal is to create a place where individuals can be productive yet feel connected.”

Addressing Housing Mix Concerns

While the development offers a diversity of apartment sizes, the emphasis on one-bedroom units has sparked debate regarding its alignment with Cork City’s development Plan, which emphasizes a range of housing options to cater to diverse demographics.

“We understand the concerns,” Byrne acknowledges. “While acknowledging the importance of diverse housing options, we believe our proposed mix reflects a real shift in demographics.” She cites Cork City’s growing aging population and smaller household sizes as factors influencing the focus on one-bedroom apartments.

Looking Ahead: Adapting to Evolving Needs

As Cork’s housing landscape continues to evolve, providing options that truly serve the needs of diverse communities remains a challenge. Byrne emphasizes the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration between developers, policymakers, and residents.

“Adaptability is key,” she stresses. “Adapting housing types,exploring innovative designs,and considering affordability in tandem with enduring practices will shape the future of housing in Cork.”

A Community in the Making

Barry’s Field Ltd.’s development presents a unique opportunity to redefine community within an urban setting. By blending residential living with flexible workspaces and fostering a sense of connection,the project aims to create a vibrant,dynamic space that caters to the evolving needs of cork City’s residents.

What are your thoughts on the proposed housing mix at Barry’s Field? Dose it align with your vision of a thriving community?

What are your thoughts on the proposed housing mix at Barry’s Field? Does it align with your vision of a thriving community?

Barry’s Field Advancement: Where Housing Meets Community

cork City Council is currently evaluating a proposed residential development in Douglas, a vibrant suburb of Cork City. The project, spearheaded by Barry’s Field Ltd., aims to transform Barry’s Field, located on Carrigaline Road and Churchyard Lane, into a bustling mixed-use space.

A Vision of Community Connection

“We envision a vibrant mixed-use space that caters to residents, workers, and the broader Douglas community,” explains Fiona Byrne, Project Manager at Barry’s Field Ltd. The development seeks to blend residential living with flexible workspace options, creating a seamless habitat for diverse needs.

“Imagine a thriving hub of activity where residents can enjoy a cup of coffee, connect with neighbours, and even work productively,” Byrne shares.“Our vision is to create a space that fosters connections and promotes a sense of belonging.”

beyond the Coffee Shop: The “Work Café” Concept

At the heart of the development lies the “Work Café” concept, a space designed to bridge the gap between traditional coffee shops and dedicated coworking spaces.

“Think of it as a welcoming blend of community and functionality,” describes Byrne.

“Residents, remote workers, freelancers, and students can work seamlessly, socialise with each other, and enjoy the atmosphere of a local café. Our aim is to cultivate a space that fosters creativity, collaboration, and a genuine sense of community.

Addressing housing Mix Concerns

While the development offers a diversity of apartment sizes, the emphasis on one-bedroom units has sparked debate regarding its alignment with Cork City’s development Plan, which emphasizes a range of housing options to cater to diverse demographics.

“We understand the concerns,” Byrne acknowledges. “while valuing a diverse range of housing options, we believe our proposed mix reflects a pragmatic response to current demographic shifts in Cork City. There’s a growing need for smaller accommodation, driven by an aging population and evolving household sizes.”

Looking Ahead: Adapting to Evolving Needs

Cork’s housing landscape continues to evolve, and meeting the needs of a diverse community is essential. “Feedback from the community is vital,” Byrne emphasizes. “We need to continuously adapt housing types, explore innovative designs, and consider affordability alongside traditional practises to shape the future of housing in Cork.”

Barry’s Field Ltd.’s development presents a unique chance to redefine community within an urban setting. By blending residential living with flexible workspaces and fostering a sense of connection, the project aims to create a vibrant, dynamic space that caters to the evolving needs of Cork City’s residents. What are your thoughts on the proposed housing mix at Barry’s Field? Does it align with your vision of a thriving community?