A CITY Councillor has slammed the continued neglect of one of Cork’s most historic buildings after weeks of inaction since its roof collapsed.
Sinn Féin’s Thomas Gould said the lack of investment in the Cork Butter Exchange is “a disgrace”.
Cllr Thomas Gould, Dominic O’Callaghan, SARA, and Linda O’Halloran of Shandon Street Festival, looking at the collapsed roof of the old Butter Exchange building, Cork recently. Picture: Denis Scannell
In mid-May, part of the roof of the street-facing part of the building collapsed. Since, Cork City Council have cleaned up the structure and are awaiting the outcome of a grant application before proceeding with any additional works.
Mr Gould said the building has been vacant for almost a decade and should never have been allowed to deteriorate as it has.
“It still can’t be used by anyone. It is nearly ten years since this building, one of the most iconic and historically important in Cork, closed. It is a disgrace that it was let get to this condition and something has to be done.”
Mr Gould suggested renovating the building for use as a cafe, artistic space and public amenity for the whole Shandon area. The tourism boost would be felt in the whole area, he said. adding that much of Cork’s historic spine has struggled in recent years.
“It would be a real cultural centre right in the heart of Shandon. Like North Main Street and Blackpool, Shandon has struggled and been forgotten about in recent years. Historic tourism is a huge industry and these areas could be right at the heart of Cork’s offering.”
Mr Gould said the local authority has not received enough support. from central government to use and maintain some of the city’s iconic buildings: “The Government are talking a big game but they and Bord Fáilte have let Cork down in a big way. The council needs investment, and they aren’t getting that.”
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