CORK County Council has opened the public consultation period for the proposed variation to the County Development Plan which aims to rezone enough land to build an extra 38,000 houses over the next ten years.

The consultation runs from March 10th to April 7th and represents a significant strategic step in addressing the housing needs of Ireland’s largest local authority area by geographic size.

The variation was prepared in direct response to ministerial guidelines issued under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, and provides additional residential land use zoning and increased headroom in the county’s main towns and villages.

Cork County Mayor Cllr Mary Linehan Foley said: ‘[The] proposed variation is an important step in ensuring that Cork County can meet the housing needs of our growing population in a sustainable and balanced way.

‘This consultation gives our communities the opportunity to have their voices heard as we plan for the county’s future. I encourage all residents, community groups, and stakeholders to engage with the process, review the material, and share their perspectives. Your input is vital in shaping a development plan that supports vibrant towns, villages, and rural areas across Cork County.’

Moira Murrell, Chief Executive, Cork County Council said the variation ‘provides the capacity needed to facilitate significant housing delivery, in line with national policy and the county’s long term growth ambitions.

‘The public consultation period is a crucial part of this process, and we greatly value the insights and feedback of all who take part. Together, we can ensure that Cork County is well positioned to meet both current and future needs.”

The draft variation builds on an extensive and positive pre consultation process, during which members of the public provided submissions and Cork County Council extends its sincere thanks to all participants for their contributions.