Planning granted to transform defunct Waterford postal office into artisan market
The site is described as a "long, irregular plot" that encompasses High Street, Keizer Street and Custom House Quay. Concept art shows a two-storey building with canopies surrounding the building's exterior.
Plans submitted by Sorting Archives Limited to transform a derelict postal office in Waterford City into an open-space food market have been granted permission by Waterford City and County Council, subject to 13 planning conditions.
The location sits at the corner of High Street and Keizer Street, and stretches down to the Quay.
In the conditions laid out by the Council, trading hours of the premises would be limited to 08:00-22:00.
The council also requires the developers to hire a qualified archaeologist to ensure the identification and preservation of any archaeological remains unearthed during the construction phase.
The developer must also pay the planning authority €2,200.
The planning application submitted by Sorted Archives Limited cites Cork's Marina Market as a reference point for the project, although the development would take place on a smaller scale.
Waterford-architecture firm Elliot Design said the new development “is intended to create a walk-through route that will link both buildings via accessible stairs and lift to a new mezzanine floor level to be constructed around the dining area, which is located at ground floor level.
“The proposed development will provide a variety of individual food pod outlets with associated dining areas located centrally.”
The application received support from Waterford Chamber of Commerce CEO Gerard Hurley, citing the market as an opportunity to revitalise urban retail.
“This type of development supports entrepreneurship, promotes regional products, and encourages the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises,” Mr Hurley wrote on behalf of the Chamber.
“It also has the potential to attract increased footfall into the city centre, benefitting surrounding retail, hospitality, and service providers.
“From a commercial perspective, developments of this nature are proven to increase dwell time and create destination-based experiences that strengthen the overall competitiveness of a city centre.
“The proposed market will add diversity to Waterford’s retail and hospitality offering and support the continued evolution of the city as an attractive location for both residents and visitors.”
Mr Hurley said the inclusion of an events space would further contribute to “an animated urban environment” in the city.
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