North Docks to get a new face by 2028
The ambitious North Docks Public Realm and Transport Infrastructure Scheme received a warm welcome from councillors at Monday’s City Hall meeting.
This project will bring new life to the Docklands. The plan will deliver a bright, south-facing waterfront framed by two new urban parks, with extensive landscaping, a water feature, seating areas and leisure spaces for everyone to enjoy. It will also reshape the eastern gateway to the city, creating a realigned road corridor with safer, wider paths for walking and cycling throughout the area.
The scheme aims to improve sustainable transport options and make the North Docks a destination in its own right, with world-class public spaces right on the waterfront. It supports walking, cycling and public transport, promoting the 15-minute city concept — where people can live, work and socialise within a short walk or cycle.
Key features of the plan include a new promenade along Horgan’s Quay with pedestrian and cycling paths, seating, green spaces and recreational areas. A new public park will include a water feature, seating and planted landscapes, while another park on Water Street will link Lower Glanmire Road to the new waterfront promenade.
The N8 national road will be realigned between Lower Glanmire Road and Alfred Street, moving traffic away from the quayside to make more room for people. The new road will include two traffic lanes, a bus lane, footpaths and planted verges.
The council received 50 submissions on the proposal, with the majority in support. One supporter wrote: “This kind of walkable, waterside public frontage is exactly what Cork needs more of. Removing unused buildings in favour of public amenities keeps Cork modern and liveable.”
Another said: “Looks fantastic. This would be a huge upgrade. After seeing the works in Blackrock, this will be an exciting addition to the north side of the river — and it connects to the greenway to Dunkettle.”
One submission praised the design: “This scheme continues the development of world-class public spaces that have transformed the Marine Promenade and its surroundings.”
Another added: “The new scheme will create an impressive entrance to the city, improving the experience for cars, cyclists and pedestrians. It’s well planned, with easy access and great public spaces that will make the North Dock a vibrant, liveable area.”
It is one of the first major sustainable transport and public realm projects within the wider Cork Docklands Development, and it will create a welcoming gateway to the city, improve road safety and connections for all users, provide world-class parks and leisure areas, and support future housing and business developments in the Docklands.
The Cork Docklands Development Strategy sets out a bold vision for a new urban quarter — modern, inclusive and full of life. It aims to create a space where people can live, work and relax by the water, rivaling the best European waterfronts.
Cork’s ‘village within the city’
“A jewel in the crown”, “fantastic”, and a major upgrade of an “almost city centre” — that’s how Cork city councillors described the Mary Street, Douglas Street and White Street Public Realm Enhancement Scheme before approving it at their meeting on 13 October.
The scheme represents a major investment in the future of Cork city, aiming to revitalise one of its most historic and culturally vibrant quarters. It will restore the distinctive “village within the city” feel of the South Parish area, while promoting sustainable urban living and creating a safer, more welcoming space for residents, businesses and visitors.
The Douglas Street area is known for its narrow footpaths, limited public spaces, and heavy traffic. These challenges have long affected daily life for locals and traders. The new plan will address these issues through a range of improvements, including wider pedestrian zones, a one-way traffic system, better parking management, upgraded paving, enhanced landscaping, and the introduction of new public spaces.
A key feature of the scheme is a new neighbourhood pocket park at the eastern end of Douglas Street, providing much-needed open space.
Councillors welcomed the project, describing it as a long-awaited improvement that will “free Douglas” and “upgrade the South Parish area”. However, some also raised concerns about the reduction in parking spaces.
Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Fergal Dennehy, praised the project’s vision and legacy. “I think there’s huge potential for Douglas Street, and I would hope that any parking issues can be resolved. Congratulations to our councillors and to the Chief Executive — you’re leaving behind a legacy to be very, very proud of. This will connect Douglas Street to the city centre, and I think it will be amazing when it’s done.”
Independent Cllr Albert Deasy took a different stance, criticising what he called “zero engagement with the public” on the scheme.
Responding, Chief Executive Valerie O’Sullivan firmly rejected that claim: “Cllr Deasy’s comment in relation to the Part 8 processes — to suggest that we’re very consultative when we’re transforming whole streets, and not at all consultative when we’re bringing forward housing proposals — is untrue, factually incorrect.
“The consultation, the effort, the care, and the lack of cynicism you spoke of earlier — that’s how we approach all of our communities, in pursuit of delivering for this city with equality and respect. That suggestion is utterly rejected on behalf of the executive.”
A total of 186 submissions were received during the public consultation. The majority expressed strong support for the scheme, while some raised concerns about parking loss, traffic impacts, and construction disruption.
Overall, the project was seen as a vital step towards a more sustainable, people-friendly city. It aligns with Cork’s long-term development plans by improving accessibility, enhancing public spaces, and making one of the city’s most historic neighbourhoods a more inviting and enjoyable place to live, work, and visit.
This article was produced with the support of the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme funded by Coimisiún na Meán.