HOPES FOR the preservation of the Beamish and Crawford brewery site in Cork have been raised after new owners Heineken Ireland contacted heritage campaigners to discuss its future use.
The first meeting between Heineken Ireland officials and the National Conservation and Heritage Group to discuss the future of the site on South Main Street in Cork is due to take place on April 15th.
Campaigners hope to see the site redeveloped in a manner sympathetic to its historic nature and had suggested a micro brewery in the style of the Guinness House in Dublin be installed, in an attempt to boost tourism and employment in the city.
The heritage group honorary secretary Mick Murphy said the meeting represented a ray of hope for the project.
“I am very happy that Heineken Ireland has opened the door to what will hopefully be helpful and meaningful negotiations that will provide for a use for the Beamish and Crawford brewery, South Main Street that will reflect the historic and heritage nature of the site,” he said.
Councillors across all parties in Cork turned out to show their support for the heritage council plans for the site at the weekend, alongside Mr Murphy and heritage council chairman Damien Cassidy.
Last week heritage campaigners reacted angrily to the news of Heineken Ireland’s intention to sell off the historic brewery.
Heineken took over the plant last year and announced in December its intention to shut it down with the loss of 120 jobs. The brewery was due to close last week but the closure has now been postponed until mid-May.