INTEREST in one of Cork’s most prime industrial locations – the former Amgen site in Carrigtwohill – has been reignited.
The IDA has been in discussions with four interested parties in the past three months for a site which was once earmarked for more than 1,000 jobs. Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation,
Richard Bruton, confirmed that the interest from potential businesses was “significant” when asked by Cork East Fine Gael TD, David Stanton.
Deputy Stanton said: “I believe that the former Amgen site is a top class location for industry, easily accessible by road and rail and in close proximity to Cork Airport and Port. Recently I wrote to the Minister seeking an update on efforts to secure an investor for the site and they assure me that the site is being marketed both here and abroad.”
In 2006, the bio-technology company announced it was creating 1,100 jobs in Carrigtwohill, in one of the most significant employment announcements in Irish history. But, in 2007, Amgen announced a two-year delay in rolling out the plant and, six months later, this became an indefinite delay.
The then-Government had continually insisted the €800m project had not been scrapped and could be revived if Amgen’s fortunes improved. There was even speculation in 2009 that Amgen was considering re-launching the Cork operation on a smaller scale. But the company handed back the site to the State’s Industrial Development Agency (IDA) in 2010, admitting the project would not go ahead. The site has lain idle ever since and there have been repeated calls to find a new investor.
Fine Gael TD David Stanton
Deputy Stanton said the previous preparation of the site meant it was now prime location for investors.
“The previous investment in the site and surrounding infrastructure and utilities make if very attractive to investors in that it will minimise the start-up cost for IDA and Enterprise Ireland companies. I am advised that IDA continues to engage with Cork County Council, utility providers and other key stakeholders and is also evaluating opportunities with regard to master planning to enhance the site’s marketability to prospective clients. I am confident that, with sustained marketing and engagement with interested parties, a suitable investor will be secure for the site. Securing an indigenous or foreign direct investment company would be a huge boost for Carrigtwohill and Midleton and the East Cork area.”
Minister Bruton said he concurred with his Fine Gael colleague in East Cork.
“The IDA has informed me that in Quarter 2 of 2015, there were four significant enquires about the site which the IDA is actively pursuing. This is certainly encouraging news. It would be a great boost for the East Cork Region and I have been assured that this is being actively pursued.”