The proposal to build a gallery within the campus of University College Cork, later to become the Gluksman Gallery, was granted permission by Cork City Council.

This decision was appealed to An Bord Pleanala by local residents who felt the proposal was "inappropriate" within the Victorian campus and would be injurious to the amenities of the area.

Manahan Planners were retained by UCC to defend the Decision and rebut the arguments of local residents.

An Bord Pleanala granted permission for the  development and it has won many awards for O`Donnell & Twomey Architects since its construction. It has been widely welcomed and praised since its opening.