Former Dell Site in Ballincollig, Cork, Poised for 130-Home Development

Plans have been submitted to Cork City Council for the construction of 130 new homes on the former Dell EMC campus in Ballincollig, Ireland. The development, led by O’Callaghan Properties (OCP) through its affiliate Castle Peak Properties Ltd, aims to transform the vacant one-hectare site into a sustainable residential community.

From Confectionery Factory to Tech Hub and Now, Housing

The Innishmore site has a rich industrial history, beginning as the Topps confectionery factory in 1976, where popular sweets like Bazooka gum were produced. According to the Irish Examiner, Topps ceased operations in 1998, and the facility was subsequently acquired by EMC, which later became part of Dell Technologies. Dell operated at the location until 2021, leaving the site vacant until now.

Residential Plans: A Mix of Apartments and Duplexes

The proposed development will involve demolishing an existing two-story building previously occupied by Dell. In its place, OCP plans to construct a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments and duplex units. The design aims to cater to a diverse range of residents, including individuals, couples, and families.

Design and Integration with Existing Communities

The development is strategically located between two existing residential schemes: Westview to the south and another development currently underway to the north. As reported by Beginner Luxury Watch, the plans include three-story duplexes along the northern boundary, designed to align with the scale of the adjacent residential development. Apartment blocks to the south will rise up to six stories within the inner courtyard, with a buff brick façade and grey brick accents.

Sustainability and Community Amenities

The project is aligned with the Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028, which prioritizes sustainable residential neighborhoods and community amenities. The Irish Examiner notes that the development will feature a centrally located public green space, accessible to residents and the wider community. A new pedestrian walkway will be created from the southern boundary to enhance connectivity.

Accessibility and Transportation

The apartment units are designed with accessibility in mind, adhering to Universal Design standards. The scheme will include parking for 68 cars, but the developers emphasize the site’s strong connectivity to public transportation, with multiple bus stops located within 100 meters, supporting car-free and low-car lifestyles.

O’Callaghan Properties’ Vision

O’Callaghan Properties, one of Ireland’s longest-established property development companies, states that the proposal aims to deliver a high-quality residential community that responds to national, regional, and local planning policies while addressing the housing needs of Cork City.