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Plans have been submitted for PorterShed tech innovation hub and co-working space to move from its current premises to a redeveloped warehouse on Bowling Green.
The proposed development led by Galway City Innovation District will involve converting an existing two storey warehouse into a co-working office space to house the PorterShed, which is currently located behind Ceannt Station
“The relocation is an essential component of the redevelopment and urban renewal of the Ceannt Station,” the application reads, adding that the PorterShed will be obliged to vacate the premises later in 2020.
Major plans are in the works to develop the city district in the Ceannt Station area.
Develoer Gerry Barrett is leading a €320 million project to create a new urban quarter on a site behind the station which will include 373 apartments, a six screen cinema, shopping district, and more.
A major overhaul of Ceannt Station itself is also in the works after many years of delays.
Other work on the premises will involve the construction of a two storey extension to the building, recladding an extension that was built in the 1980s, and replacing the roof.
Solar panels, air conditioning, and a modern air to water heat pump will be installed to bring this warehouse up to the standard of a modern office space.
Landscaping work will involve creating a courtyard space between the buildings and Market Street car park, and pedestrian/cycle access to Market Street.
Two car parking spaces and 28 bicycle spaces will be provided to the front of the building.
Since first opening in 2016, the PorterShed has supported the creation of 730 jobs by providing office space an other supports for tech orientated start up companies.
The move will provide more space than at the current premises, growing its capacity from roughly 100 desk spaces to 130.
But the application states that the primary reason for the move is “first and foremost to facilitate business continuity”.
“The proposed development will result in the maintenance and enhancement of an important element of business/creative sector infrastructure to Galway City,”
“Market Street/Bowling Green is ideally located for such a space, being in close proximity to the city centre, public transport, and cycling infrastructure”.
Separately, plans are also in the works to convert the nearby Connacht Tribune building into co-working offices, which will massively expand the capacity of the PorterShed to house startup and expanding companies.
Galway City Council is due to make a decision on this planning application by July 4 of this year.
