12 February 2016
By Bryan T. Smyth
bryan@TheCork.ie
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny turning the sod at the site of the old Capitol cinema complex in Cork yesterday. Photo Billy macGill.
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD today officially turned the first sod on the €50 million redevelopment of The Capitol Project in Cork. This symbolic sod turning formally marks the first step in the rejuvenation of Cork City and a momentous investment into the heart of the city centre.
Artists impression of the the Grand Parade frontage of the former Capitol Cineplex
The Capitol Project, with frontage to both St. Patrick’s Street and the Grand Parade, adjacent to The English Market, will create a new breathtaking and timeless landmark for Cork, and will breathe much welcomed new life to the west side of the city centre, whilst also creating up to 1,000 jobs once complete.
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny TD was joined today by John Cleary, of JCD and Pat O’Connell from The English Market to mark the occasion. Speaking about the project, John Cleary stated “As a Cork based company, we are delighted to be involved in a project as exciting as this for the region. Cork City in particular has huge potential, and The Capitol is a major opportunity to bring new premium retail names, as well as increased footfall, into the city centre. As well as 60,000 sq ft of retail space, there will also be Grade A office space built to gold LEED standard which will accommodate up to 350 people. This development will be a welcomed boost to city centre traders. In just over 12 months’ time we hope to have the project complete and the positive impact of it well underway.”
The Capitol, taking its name from the former cinema, was a famous meeting point for generations of Corkonians, but has sadly remained derelict for years. In keeping with old traditions, food heritage and innovation is playing a big part in the development and the close connection to The English Market is being respected and celebrated.
Artists impression of new development seen from Washington Street
The fondly remembered and iconic Oyster Tavern, established in the 1800s will also be restored to its former glory through this development, with the opening of an upmarket restaurant and bar, serving produce sourced from the neighbouring English Market.
Work on The Capitol project began in late January with local firm Loftus Demolition, and is due to take just over 12 months to complete.
