7 October 2026
By Tom Collins
tom@TheCork.ie
Cork City Council, together with the Blackpool Village Team, today launched the ‘Blackpool Village Core Concept Design and Implementation Strategy’ setting out a shared vision and programme of projects to support the regeneration and renewal of Blackpool Village Centre.
The launch event, hosted at the Blackpool Community Centre in the heart of the village, was led by the Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Damian Boylan, who said:
“The preparation of this Strategy reflects the values of a community working together with a focus on achieving positive outcomes that improve people’s lives. It demonstrates what can be achieved through collaboration and provides a clear framework for the future regeneration of Blackpool Village.”
Martha Halbert, RAPID Coordinator Cork City Council, Niall O Donnabháin, Director of Service for Planning and Development Cork City Council, Valerie O’Sullivan, Chief Executive Cork City Council, Lord Mayor Cllr Damian Boylan, Gráinne O’Donnell, Chair of Blackpool Regeneration Group, Sharon McDonnell, Senior Executive Planner Cork City Council and Tara Kennedy, Project Architect at the launch of the Blackpool Village Core Concept Design and Implementation Strategy by Coirk City Council.
Pic. Darragh Kane
Gráinne O’Donnell, Chair of Blackpool Regeneration Group, Lord Mayor Cllr Damian Boylan, Valerie O’Sullivan, Chief Executive Cork City Council, Sharon McDonnell, Senior Executive Planner Cork City Council, Tara Kennedy, Project Architect and Niall O’Donnabháin, Director of Service for Planning and Development Cork City Council at the launch of the Blackpool Village Core Concept Design and Implementation Strategy by Coirk City Council.
Pic. Darragh Kane
Led by Cork City Council in partnership with the consultancy team, John McLaughlin Associates, and the Blackpool Village Team, the Strategy was prepared through the Town Centre First process. It translates a shared ambition for the Blackpool Village Core into a coordinated programme of projects and investment priorities that will guide future decision-making, support funding opportunities and help deliver positive change over time.
The Strategy has been informed by extensive analysis, stakeholder engagement and public consultation. It identifies projects aimed at enhancing public spaces, improving connectivity, supporting economic and social activity, and strengthening community life while building on Blackpool’s unique character, heritage and sense of place.
Developed to concept design stage, the proposed projects provide a strong foundation for future investment and delivery. The Strategy is intended to help coordinate investment, support funding applications and provide a clear framework for implementation. Realising this vision will require ongoing collaboration between local stakeholders, State agencies, funding partners and Cork City Council.
Chief Executive of Cork City Council, Valerie O’Sullivan, said:
“Blackpool Village was once a thriving hub on the City’s Northside. It is time to restore its vibrancy and enhance its distinctive character for a new future.”
She added:
“This Strategy provides a clear and practical roadmap for the regeneration of the village core. It will help unlock the potential of Blackpool’s built, cultural and community assets while reinforcing the role of the village centre as the heart of the community.”
The Blackpool Village Core Concept Design and Implementation Strategy is available to view on Cork City Council’s website at https://www.corkcity.ie/en/council-services/services/planning/framework-plans/