Dairygold has confirmed the sale of its Creamfields development site to Cairn Homes for €25.6 million, marking a significant step in the transformation of this prominent Cork City location. The site, formerly that of CMP Dairies on Kinsale Road, secured full planning permission in 2022 for a major residential project that includes 606 units alongside commercial spaces. This redevelopment is tailored to address the acute housing demand in Cork by delivering 225 social and 381 cost-rental apartments, situated opposite Musgrave Park and close to key transport links like the South Ring Road and Tramore Valley Park.

This ambitious scheme, which obtained approval from An Bord Pleanála, features a mix of one- to four-bedroom apartments, with a notable inclusion of build-to-rent units. Beyond housing, the development is planned to incorporate a range of amenities such as retail outlets, a creche, a gym, and a coffee kiosk, aiming to foster a vibrant new neighbourhood in Cork. The project is seen as a catalyst for regeneration of a large, previously underutilised brownfield site, with local authorities viewing it as instrumental in efforts to expand affordable housing options in the city.

Dairygold’s strategy focuses on maximising value from non-core property assets through timely divestment. Michael Harte, Chief Executive of Dairygold, highlighted the company's successful track record, including securing planning approvals for approximately 1,200 homes in recent years. Pat Clancy, Chairperson of Dairygold, reflected on the site’s heritage as the former home of CMP Dairies, a beloved local dairy brand, and emphasised the importance of delivering a development that honours this legacy while meeting contemporary housing needs. He expressed confidence that, with the involvement of Cairn Homes, the housing body Respond, and Cork City Council, the residential programme would be commenced by the fourth quarter of 2025.

The partnership between Dairygold, Cairn Homes, and Respond has been supported by Cork City Council, aiming to provide a balanced residential offering that blends social, cost rental, and affordable housing options. Enabling works have already started on the site, with the entire development expected to take up to three years to complete. This project represents the largest collaboration to date for Cork City Council’s housing directorate and is anticipated to play a crucial role in alleviating the city’s housing shortage by delivering high-quality, sustainable homes within an integrated community setting.

Overall, the Creamfields development is projected to revitalise a key urban area, fostering placemaking that incorporates residential, commercial, and community uses. Approval reports from planning authorities have cited the project's acceptable design, scale, and potential positive socio-economic impact, underpinning the strategic importance of this redevelopment for Cork’s urban renewal efforts.