Apartment development approved at former Bessborough Mother and Baby Home site amid survivor opposition

Plans to develop 106 apartments at the site of the former Bessborough Mother and Baby institution in Cork, Ireland, have been approved, a decision described as "very disappointing" by survivors and advocates.

The approval comes after an appeal to An Coimisiún Pleanála, overturning an earlier decision by Cork City Council. Developer Estuary View Enterprises had initially received planning permission earlier this year. However, the Bessborough Mother and Baby Home Support Group and local councilor Peter Horgan lodged appeals against the development.

Campaigners and survivors have long opposed development at the site, citing concerns about potential undocumented burials. The Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes estimated that over 900 babies died at Bessborough between its operation from 1922 until 1998/99 under the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. While some burial locations have been identified, the whereabouts of many children's remains remain unknown.

Survivors' groups argue that any development could permanently disturb evidence before all investigations are complete, particularly as they believe parts of the land may contain undocumented burials. The institution housed thousands of women and children over its decades of operation.

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The decision has been described by survivors and advocates as very disappointing.