Developed as a project by Cork Corporation in late 2004, the five-acre park Loughmahon Park is built upon the remnants of the forgotten demense estate of the early nineteenth century Ballinure House.

Sir David Perrier, Mayor of Cork in 1814, who developed Ballinure House was a glass manufacturer, sugar refiner, paper maker and distiller.

The Perriers arrived first into Ireland about 1685 was Mark Du Perrier, a Huguenot from Caen, Brittany fleeing religious persecution in his native land. He settled in Dublin.

The first and second edition of the Ordnance Survey show the Perrier House and the extent of the estate with roads and tree plantations marked.

In August 1929, an advertisement lists Ballinure House for sale:

“MARSH AND SONS are instructed by the representatives of the late Mrs. M. B. Perrier to Sell by Auction, at the Salesrooms, 70 South Mall, Cork on Monday, 26th August , 1929, at ‘ One o’clock, the above well known Residence and Lands, held under two Leases , viz., for the term of 859 years, from 18th July, 1827 at the Annual Rent of £31 2s. Od., and Lease for the term of 500 years from 1st November, 1871, at the yearly rent of £12, P.L.V. £83 15s. Od.

The Property is conveniently Situated within easy reach of the City of Cork, with Gate Lodge and Avenue entrance. The accommodation comprises Drawingroom, Diningroom, Breakfastroom and Study, 7 Bedrooms, Maids’ Rooms, 2 Bathrooms, Hot Press, second Staircase, Kitchen, Domestic Offices, etc. The out offices in Enclosed Yard comprise Stabling for 4 Horses (loose boxes), Stall for 5 Cows, Coach House, Harness Boom, Laundry, etc.

The House stands, in well-planted surroundings, with Tennis Court; there is also a large enclosed Fruit and Vegetable Garden and second entrance from the road. The Pasture Lands comprise. an extensive Lawn in front of the House of very prime quality”.

Ballinure House was still standing, though unoccupied in 1980. It was a ruin in 1992 and demolished soon after.  Some specimens of chestnut, elm, holly, plane, palm and Araucaria better known as Monkey Puzzle or the Norfolk Pine, still survive in Loughmahon Park.

Read about Clover Hill Park, 12. Clover Hill Park | Cllr. Kieran McCarthy

Read Kieran’s June 2024 local election manifesto here: 2. Kieran’s Manifesto, Local Elections 2024 | Cllr. Kieran McCarthy