Mallow has the highest number of derelict properties in County Cork, according to local TD Eoghan Kenny, who has called for stronger action to tackle long-standing dereliction in the town.
Speaking to The Irish Times, Deputy Kenny highlighted the impact vacant and derelict properties are having on Mallow town centre, with particular attention drawn to the long-running saga surrounding the former Central Hotel site.
Kenny said the situation was not good enough for a town with the potential of Mallow.
“Mallow is a fantastic town with enormous potential,” he said, while arguing that residents should not have to accept buildings and sites remaining vacant and derelict for years.
The former Central Hotel site has become one of the most prominent examples of the issue, with its long-running vacancy continuing to attract concern locally.
However, the problem extends beyond the former hotel, with derelict and vacant properties visible in various parts of the town.
Deputy Kenny said stronger intervention is required to ensure that properties are brought back into productive use, while also calling for greater resources for local authorities.
“We need stronger action, quicker decisions and properly resourced local authorities to bring these sites back into use,” he said.
The issue of vacant and derelict properties has become an increasingly important part of the conversation around the future of Mallow town centre, particularly as communities look to regenerate existing urban areas and create new opportunities for housing, business and community use.
