A Kildare Village style shopping outlet is being considered by Cork County Council

A new retail study is under way which could identify potential locations in Cork for a Kildare Village-style luxury brand retail outlet. Cork County Council confirmed yesterday that it has jointly commissioned the study with the city council on the requirement for a retail outlet centre in the Metropolitan Cork strategic planning area, the Irish Examiner reports. Consultants have been asked to identify first if there is a need for such an outlet and then, if appropriate, shortlist possible locations for such an outlet. They will also take into account the potential impact of such an outlet on Cork City and any nearby town centres. The council said the need for additional policy guidance in this specific retail policy area was raised during the recent Local Area Plan review process and during the public consultation on Variation 1 to the Cork County Development Plan, 2014. It is understood the study will provide a policy context within which any possible future planning applications for such a development could be considered. Kildare Village boasts some of the world’s top luxury brands, including Prada, Armani, Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Ted Baker, Tommy Hilfiger, Mulberry, Boss, and Nike, and welcomed 2.5m shoppers in 2015. The Irish outlet is part of the Bicester Village Shopping Collection by Value Retail, which has 1,300 boutiques across 11 retail outlets across Europe and China. The shopping malls claim to offer savings of up to 60% on the recommended retail price.