Cork is on the cusp of recovery as it begins to emerge from the COVID19 pandemic. The heritage of Cork City and its rich Arts and Culture scene will be a great part of that recovery. It is therefore positive to see a commitment in this plan to promote the retention, reuse, and enhancement of buildings and other elements of architectural, archaeological and other significance, while also acknowledging national policy in relation to archaeological monuments.
Plans for an Event Centre in Cork have become the subject of much debate in recent years and while there are many factors at play in relation to the delivery of the facility, this City Development Plan must do everything within its power to ensure that the city is ready for the level of activity this venue will bring. The widening of footpaths, reliable and frequent public transport, and accommodation options must all be in place in advance of the delivery of this highly anticipated site.
Cork City Council must be commended for its support of street art initiatives such as the ‘Ardú Murals’ which have greatly enhanced key locations across the city that were otherwise lacking colour and character. It is important that this momentum is maintained throughout the lifetime of this plan, and this type of creativity continues to be encouraged. In parallel the evolution of long-standing institutions such as the Crawford must continue to be endorsed.
The city’s quay walls and any remnants of the medieval city wall should be restored, protected and carefully adapted. This infrastructure is a unique part of our heritage and will allow the history of the city to stay alive. Through the delivery of the Lower Lee Flood Relief Scheme there should be as much restoration of quay walls as possible throughout the city. The planned evolution of Bishop Lucey Park has taken into account the importance of the city wall and its retention has been incorporated into the overall design. It is important that this development plan takes a similar approach, and this should not be solely confined to the city’s historic walls. Other historic features should be protected in a manner that retains what is visually important but also allows development. Conducting an audit of the city’s architecture and determining the value of its heritage, while adhering to national laws, would protect the city’s most valuable architectural assets while also allowing development. It is important that 20th century heritage is included and assessed to give clarity as regards which buildings and features the City considers to be of architectural heritage.
Cork City Council has pledged to progress the implementation of its Arts and Culture Strategy for the period 2021-2025 throughout the course of this lifetime. As part of this strategy areas for potential skate parks, basketball courts and modern playgrounds that cater for all ages should be explored with a view to becoming a reality by the expiration of the City Development Plan itself. Skateparks, basketball courts and playgrounds build and sustain healthy communities, provide an outlet for youth, and have been known to curb antisocial behaviour. The inclusion of such facilities will ensure that the city is a place for all, not just tourists, employees and shoppers.
Tourism in Cork is vital to the success of the city and to a strong economy going forwards. The development of tourist attractions needs to be taken into consideration as part of this development plan. Dublin and Belfast cities are both well known for attractions such as the Guinness Store House and Titanic Belfast. Cork city must strive to accentuate its tourist attractions and develop them further so the city becomes a must-see destination on tourists travel itineraries. The Chamber supports the plans for Páirc Uí Chaoimh to develop a visitor experience, and a maritime museum at the Port of Cork sites. It is essential that the plan not only supports these initiatives, but others of comparable ambition.