Mayor walks Cork to talk to businesses

It is always better to see something with your own eyes than to only read a report or hear it second-hand.

That was the thinking behind a recent walkabout in Cork city centre, when the Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Fergal Dennehy, joined Cork Business Association (CBA) President Dave O’Brien to meet businesses face to face.

The lord mayor stopped at a variety of premises, meeting teams and hearing feedback on trading conditions. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting strong footfall and trade, visible garda presence, and significant improvements in street cleansing across the city.

The walk started on Lapps Quay at WTW, a global advisory and broking company with a strong base in Cork. From there, the group called to Clancy’s Bar on Princes Street – one of Cork’s oldest pubs, recently refreshed after major renovation.

Next was First South Credit Union on the South Mall, a trusted name in finance for Cork people over many decades. The lord mayor then visited Sheena’s Boutique on Oliver Plunkett Street, a popular independent fashion store and loyal CBA supporter.

On Patrick Street, the group met with Brown Thomas, a cornerstone of Cork’s retail scene and an active voice in CBA’s retail working group.

The walk then moved to Perry Street for a stop at the new Bakestone Café, known for fresh local produce. Here, the lord mayor also admired a striking new mural by artist David Shillinglaw, part of the 10th Sounds from a Safe Harbour festival.

The tour finished at Fifth Quarter (the former Paul Street Shopping Centre), which is undergoing major redevelopment. A new food quarter and plaza are set to open there in 2026.

Speaking afterwards, CBA President Dave O’Brien said: “It is an absolute pleasure to accompany the lord mayor today to visit some of our amazing businesses here in Cork city. This walkabout is always a highlight of the year for teams, as it shines a light on the many businesses that work tirelessly to make Cork the very best city.”

The annual walkabout shows that nothing beats being on the ground. From global firms to independent boutiques, cafés, and historic bars – Cork’s business spirit is best understood by meeting the people who keep it alive every day.

For more on Cork Business Association, upcoming events, and information on becoming a member, see corkbusiness.ie

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