More details and images emerge on monumental North Quays planning approval

Waterford City and County Council yesterday granted planning permission for the €200 million Waterford North Quays development. 

Permission was granted to Harcourt Developments (trading as Hopcast Limited) for the the first phase of the North Quays Strategic Development Zone (SDZ), which includes significant residential accommodation, as well as office and hotel accommodation, retail offerings and high-quality public realm spaces.

The approved plans include 350 residential units with retail units on ground floors.

Also greenlit is the construction of office accommodation including a ground floor creche and retail.

A four star 160-bedroom hotel and conference centre will be constructed, as well as a 163-room aparthotel.

Central to the development is the creation of extensive public spaces, featuring two new civic plazas—the Bridge Plaza at the Sustainable Transport Bridge and the Station Square near the future Transport Hub. 

Additionally, a riverfront promenade, pocket parks, and a comprehensive greenway cycling route will form key elements of the new urban quarter.

Commenting on the planning decision yesterday, Sean McKeown, Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council said, 'This is a momentous day for Waterford and the wider region. 

'The North Quays Infrastructure Project is progressing well, with the impressive integrated transport hub on Frank Cassin Wharf, the construction of the five access bridges over the rail corridor and new greenway, and the much anticipated arrival of the sustainable transport bridge from Belgium next month.

'This next phase of development on the North Quays is hugely significant as it amplifies the potential for jobs, investment, and residential and commercial development.'

According to Waterford Council, the direct benefit to Waterford of the investment in the SDZ Site is anticipated to be in excess of €350m over the next six years, with 200 people employed during construction and upwards of 1,500 jobs to be created following completion of phase one of the development.

Construction of the private SDZ development is anticipated to start later this year.

The project is master-planned and designed by architectural practice Douglas Wallace Consultants on behalf of Harcourt Developments.

Lead designer, Stephen Shally at Douglas Wallace Consultants said today: 'Our design is part of an ambitious master plan for Waterford City, specifically crafted to create distinctive, memorable spaces that enrich the sense of place for residents and citizens. The site layout, featuring interconnected civic plazas and the vibrant riverfront promenade, is designed to foster community interaction and enjoyment.'

“The design accommodates a diverse residential mix, offering one, two, and three-bedroom apartments designed to appeal to a broad demographic, contributing to a vibrant and sustainable urban community. The development is poised to breathe new life and vitality into the North Quays, creating a significant new residential and commercial district for Waterford.'

Architect Hugh Wallace of Douglas Wallace Consultants commended the planners and Council Members for their work in getting the project greenlit, saying that the development will ‘completely reimagine the city’.

He added: ''It will be fantastic for residents, for tourism and hospitality outlets and will provide visitors with a lasting and positive experience of Waterford.'

'It will future proof Waterford city and will enrich the lives of so many people living and working in the area. The granting of planning permission for this development is a truly pivotal moment for Waterford City's regeneration and growth.'