Respond Housing Association has announced in partnership with Cork City Council, that it has secured planning permission and funding approval in principle for 10 apartments for older persons in Dublin Street, Blackpool, five one bed units and five two bed units, and hopes to begin construction later this Summer.

This is a good news story for Blackpool in that it involves the removal of three derelict properties from a significant part of the Blackpool streetscape.  The three derelict properties, located on the corner of Spring Lane and Dublin Street, have been in a major state of disrepair (partly demolished) for a number of years.

The development brings to fruition the partnership with Cork City Council’s Housing, Planning and Architect’s Departments. The construction programme, estimated to last approximately 18 months, will also provide some much needed employment in the City.

When completed, the development will be managed from the Respond Centre already located at St. Francis Gardens, Blackpool, Cork.  This established and very successful centre, operating since 2006, incorporates many support services and activities for older persons. These include a Day Care Centre, physiotherapy, podiatry, counselling, dietetics, reminiscence therapy, arts, crafts and exercise programmes.

Respond look forward to continuing to work with Cork City Council to provide housing and other services to people in-need living in the Blackpool area.