Call to create city's ‘only public park’

A petition has been launched to turn a long-neglected derelict site into the Cork city centre’s only public park.

The petition is calling on Cork City Council to “purchase and transform” the old tax office site on Sullivan’s Quay and turn it into a public green space.

The site has remained dormant since the former tax office was demolished in 2018, despite plans announced at the time for the development of a new hotel up to 12 storeys tall.

Launched on Tuesday, the online petition has amassed 125 signatures at time of writing. Organisers on the petition’s change.org page wrote: “We, the undersigned, urge Cork City Council to purchase and transform the derelict site at Sullivan’s Quay into a public park.

“This location is currently derelict and neglected, yet it offers a unique opportunity to create the only green space in Cork city centre.”

Organisers said a park at the location would provide a safe, accessible space for relaxation and children's recreation, while working to improve air quality and biodiversity in the otherwise built-up area. They said it would also enhance Cork’s appeal as a sustainable, liveable city.

“Let’s reclaim this space for the community and future generations. We call on Cork City Council to act now and make Sullivan’s Quay the city centre park the people of Cork deserve,” said the organisers.

As things stand, the closest open green spaces to Cork city centre are Fitzgerald’s Park, Bell’s Field, Shalom Park, The Lough, and Kennedy Park, none of which are within the city’s central business district. Bishop Lucey Park has just re-opened.