A decision from Cork County Council is expected next month on a significant planning application for the redevelopment of the emergency aviation facility at Knockcahill in North Cork.
The proposal outlines a major upgrade of the site, centred on the construction of a 740-metre hard-surfaced runway along with a 147-metre taxiway. If approved, the works would replace the existing grass runway with a more durable surface designed to support emergency flight operations in a wider range of weather conditions.
The application also includes a substantial redesign of the current site layout.
At present, key operational buildings, including the hangar, paramedic base and helipad, are located on the eastern side of the facility. Under the proposed development, these structures would be demolished and reconstructed to a modern standard on the western side of the site.
The redevelopment plan includes a new helipad to support the HSE National Ambulance Service Air Ambulance operation, along with a modern operations and paramedic base designed to improve emergency response capability.
A replacement hangar of a similar scale to the existing structure is also included in the plans. The proposal additionally provides for improved ground-level lighting around the site to enhance operational safety and visibility for aircraft movements.
Infrastructure upgrades would also include the installation of a new proprietary wastewater treatment system to serve the redeveloped facility.
According to planning documentation, Cork County Council is expected to make a decision on the application by April 9.
If approved, the development would represent a significant investment in emergency aviation infrastructure in North Cork, potentially strengthening the operational capability of the region’s air ambulance service.