St Fin Barre's Quarter Development Group Submission

On behalf of St Fin Barre's Quarter Development Group I want to congratulate Cork City Council on the comprehensive Draft Cork City Development plan and the pro-active approach taken to consultation.

Having considered the plan in detail we note that there is a high level of consistency between our own approach and that of Cork City Council. We are focused on embracing diversity and inclusiveness, promoting sustainability and providing opportunity for placemaking and community.

We feel that a number of our key projects are particularly harmonious with four of the nine key strategic principles that you have identified;

• A city of neighbourhoods and communities

• Enhanced built and natural heritage

• A healthy, inclusive and diverse city

• A city of learning and culture

We would ask that consideration be given to including these projects in the Cork City Development Plan and in addition that the community of St Fin Barre's be considered as a discreet "neighbourhood" within the plan allowing us to really focus on a sense of place and pride. All of our projects are intended to be as beneficial to those who have physical or behavioural impairments as those without and the "The Inclusive Cathedral" is an excellent example of our inclusive thinking.

We want to acknowledge the engagement we have had with Cork City Council, Greenspaces for Health, Siobhán Keogh Design, Cork Chamber of Commerce, Cork Business Association, An Garda Síochána, University College Cork, Munster Technological University and Students Union, National Council for the Blind Ireland, Elizabeth Fort, local schools and numerous business owners and residents in our neighbourhood.

St Fin Barre's Quarter Development Group are happy to work with Cork City Council to support the realisation of the nine specific recommendations in this submission. In addition we welcome any suggestions to enhance the sense of inclusion and neighbourhood in this important historical area of Cork City.