Have your say on planned South Parish area changes

By Liudmyla Bortok

The second of two public consultation days for the South Parish street improvement plan will take place this Friday 4 July at Nano Nagle Place from 10am to 7pm. Locals will have the chance to view the plans, speak with the design team, and share their views on a project that aims to reshape one of Cork’s most historic areas.

The Mary Street, Douglas Street, and White Street Public Realm Enhancement Scheme is part of a wider plan to restore the unique character of the South Parish and create a ‘village within the city’. The scheme is focused on improving daily life in the area by making the streets safer, more attractive, and more accessible.

A key aim is to reduce through-traffic, which currently makes up 97% of vehicles during busy times. This will allow for wider footpaths, better public spaces, more street trees, and a greener, more people-friendly environment. Parking for residents and businesses will remain, and a new community park is planned at the eastern end of Douglas Street.

The area is known for its narrow streets and high traffic levels, which have long made life difficult for locals, traders, and visitors. The proposed changes are designed to ease these pressures while respecting the deep history of the South Parish. Settlements in the area go back to the 10th century, and the Red Abbey — Cork’s oldest surviving medieval structure — still stands nearby.

This scheme is part of Cork City Council’s broader efforts to support sustainable urban living through better public spaces and improved access for all.

The Part 8 planning process is open until Thursday 7 August. Comments and feedback will be accepted until Monday 25 August. Full details, including drawings and images, are available online at consult.corkcity.ie.

Residents and businesses are strongly encouraged to attend Friday’s event and have their say.

This article was produced with the support of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme funded by Coimisiún na Meán.