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Cork County Council marked a significant milestone with the launch of its first Cost Rental scheme at An Cnocán, Bantry. The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll, and the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD.

The An Cnocán development consists of 10 newly constructed, energy-efficient A-rated homes, including two, three, and four-bedroom units. These homes are designed to provide affordable rental accommodation for middle-income individuals and families, with rents set at least 25% lower than private market rates. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to deliver more cost rental schemes in County Cork, with similar projects set to launch soon in Midleton and Bandon.

The event was one of several site visits to affordable and social housing schemes across the county, highlighting the Council’s commitment to meeting housing demand. Over 200 homes have already been delivered under the Affordable Purchase scheme in seven towns in County Cork, with more developments planned.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll, speaking at the event, noted:

“There has been great interest in the Cost Rental scheme since it opened earlier this month. These homes offer security for tenants and are a long-term affordable option for people who do not own a home, are above the threshold for social housing, and find it difficult to afford private rented accommodation. The closing date is Monday, the 28th of October at 12 noon so I am encouraging eligible applicants to submit their documents as soon as possible. The cost rental and affordable homes provide additional avenues for us to achieve our targets under the Government’s Housing for All national housing plan.”

Minister O’Brien praised the project, stating:

“Building affordable homes to rent is a key part of Government’s Housing for All plan, and cost rental schemes are now becoming a reality across the country. This excellent development in Bantry is one of many – as we work to scale up delivery of affordable and social homes where they are most needed. These homes will have a transformative impact in this area – creating a sustainable, affordable, well-connected community.”

Further site visits during the day included the €9.5 million social housing development at Caherdaniel, Bantry, which will eventually deliver 34 homes, with the first 10 set to be transferred to Cork County Council next year. In Macroom, projects at Sleaveen East and Meadowlands are progressing, with 8 apartments completed in the town centre and 16 additional apartments and townhouses in the pipeline.

The Minister concluded his tour at Baile Adaim in Carrigtwohill, where 23 affordable homes are currently for sale, and Brigown Road, Mitchelstown, where 8 social houses are nearing completion.

Cork County Council aims to deliver 1,350 social and 280 affordable homes by the end of 2024 as part of its ambitious Housing for All programme.

For further details on cost rental, social, and affordable housing schemes in County Cork, visit www.corkcoco.ie.