Public Consultation: Cork North Docks Public Realm and Transport Infrastructure
Closing Date for Submissions: 4:00 PM, Wednesday, 6 August 2025
Cork City Council invites public submissions on the proposed Cork North Docks Public Realm and Transport Infrastructure Scheme. This significant project will transform key parts of the Docklands area, improving transport connectivity, creating high-quality public spaces, and enhancing waterfront access for pedestrians and cyclists.
Overview
In accordance with Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), Cork City Council intends to undertake a major development in the Cork North Docks area. This transformative scheme supports the city’s strategic vision for sustainable urban regeneration and enhanced public realm amenities.
Key Features of the Proposed Development
The project comprises the following core elements:
Realignment of the N8 Road: Relocating the road behind Kent Station (approx. 720m), including two traffic lanes, a bus lane, footpaths, and landscaped verges—removing vehicle traffic from Horgan’s Quay.
Demolition Works:
Removal of a single-storey dockside shed (Dowdall Building) on Horgan’s Quay.
Partial demolition of a single-storey railway shed within the Kent Station yard.
New Waterfront Promenade: A 690m promenade along Horgan’s Quay with pedestrian and cycling paths, recreational areas, seating, feature structures, and landscaping.
Creation of Public Parks:
A major new public park (approx. 6000m²) with surface finishes, water features, and recreational spaces.
A gateway park along Water Street providing a pedestrian link between Lower Glanmire Road and the waterfront.
Supporting Infrastructure: Includes new public lighting, drainage, road signage, and markings.
Environmental and Natura 2000 Considerations
A Screening for Appropriate Assessment under the EU Habitats Directive has been conducted in relation to nearby Natura 2000 sites, including:
Cork Harbour Special Protection Area (Site No. 004030)
Great Island Channel SAC (Site No. 001058)
Blackwater River (Cork/Waterford) SAC (Site No. 002170)
The assessment concluded that no significant effects are likely, and no further stage of Appropriate Assessment is required.
A screening for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) also determined that the development is not likely to have significant effects on the environment, and therefore, a full EIA is not required.
Viewing the Plans
Plans and associated reports (including AA and EIA screenings) are available:
Online: https://consult.corkcity.ie/en
In-Person: Reception Desk, Cork City Council, City Hall, Cork
Dates: Wednesday, 28 May 2025 – Wednesday, 23 July 2025
Note: In-person viewing is by appointment only. Call 021-4924000 to book.
Submissions & Observations
Submissions on the proposed development—focused on planning and sustainable development—can be made:
By Post:
Senior Engineer, Infrastructure Directorate
City Hall, Cork
(Envelope marked: “Cork North Docks Public Realm and Transport Infrastructure”)
Online: https://consult.corkcity.ie/en
Deadline: 4:00 PM, Wednesday, 6 August 2025
Data Protection & Public Disclosure
All submissions, including names and addresses, will form part of the statutory report submitted to Cork City Council and may appear in the minutes of council meetings, which are published in the public domain. Data will be retained only as long as necessary in line with the Council’s Data Retention Policy and applicable Data Protection laws.
Issued on: 28 May 2025
Valerie O’Sullivan
Chief Executive
Cork City Council
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