Public Invited to Shape Future of North Blackpool Kilbarry

Residents of North Blackpool Kilbarry are encouraged to participate in a community survey regarding significant expansion plans for the suburb, which will include a new train station, enhanced bus services, and upgraded road infrastructure. Cork City Council has identified North Blackpool Kilbarry as one of the key ‘strategic expansion areas’ within its Development Plan, anticipating a population surge of approximately 60% over the next 20 years.

As part of this initiative, the proposed Cork Northern Distributor road will run north of Blackpool, facilitating better access to the area. The Council is seeking public input on the development through an online survey, which is available until November 28, 2023. The survey poses questions about residents’ commuting habits, traffic concerns, safety at night, and the overall identity of the neighborhood. It also inquires about local needs, such as the demand for medical centers, restaurants, schools, parks, and sports clubs.

North Blackpool Kilbarry is recognized as an important employment hub, particularly due to the presence of the Blackpool Shopping Centre and nearby retail parks. Currently, the area supports around 3,200 jobs, with over 2,300 employees commuting by car. The existing transport situation is described as “car-dominated,” with limited public transport options and growing traffic problems, which is concerning given its position as a primary entry point to Cork city.

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

The current residential makeup of North Blackpool Kilbarry is characterized by low-density housing scattered across different pockets, often lacking convenient access to essential services. Notably, there are no schools within the immediate area, with the nearest institutions being Scoil Oilibheir and St Aidan’s in Ballyvolane. The City Plan has earmarked a site along Old Whitechurch Road for future educational facilities.

To accommodate the anticipated population growth, the plan outlines the necessity for additional convenience stores and local commercial services. The local nightlife currently revolves around a cinema and take-away food venues, suggesting a pressing need for diversified entertainment options and recreational infrastructure.

Furthermore, transport improvements are critical for facilitating smooth movement between Kilbarry, Dublin Hill, and Blackpool village. A proposed train station on the site of the former goods station in Kilbarry, situated above the Blackpool Shopping Centre, aims to enhance connectivity. This station will be part of the Cork Area Commuter Rail network, linking Mallow to Cobh and Midleton via Kent Station. Additional proposed stops include Monard, Tivoli, and Carrigtwohill West.

The finalization of the expansion plan is expected in early 2026, making resident participation in this survey vital for shaping the future of North Blackpool Kilbarry. The survey can be accessed online, offering a platform for community voices to be heard in this transformative development.