Public Consultation: Mary Street, Douglas Street and White Street Public Realm Enhancement Scheme
Closing Date for Submissions: 4:00 PM, Monday, 25 August 2025
Cork City Council invites public submissions on the proposed Mary Street, Douglas Street, and White Street Public Realm Enhancement Scheme, a key development aimed at improving pedestrian access, traffic flow, active travel infrastructure, and urban amenities across these areas.
Overview
Under Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended), Cork City Council intends to undertake significant public realm works in the Douglas Street area, promoting safer streets, improved accessibility, and enhanced community spaces. This development aligns with Cork City’s commitment to sustainable urban living and integrated mobility planning.
Key Elements of the Proposed Development
The enhancement scheme includes, but is not limited to, the following:
Widening and upgrading footpaths, with new pedestrian crossings
Traffic calming and junction realignments at Friar St., Evergreen St., and Abbey St.
Creation of cul de sac and shared surface streets for improved pedestrian and cycling safety
Introduction of landscaped areas and small city park at Douglas Street
New cycle infrastructure, including protected junctions and contraflow lanes
One-way traffic conversions on several streets (e.g., Meade St., Drinan St., White St.)
Public realm upgrades, including:
Trees and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS)
Seating, bike parking, and shared bin storage
Enhanced street lighting and removal of overhead cables
Installation of raised junction tables and TFI shared bike schemes
Environmental Considerations
The proposal has undergone a Screening for Appropriate Assessment under Article 6(3) of the EU Habitats Directive. The findings confirm no likely significant impact on any Natura 2000 site.
A preliminary examination under Article 120(1)(a) of the Planning and Development Regulations concluded that the development is not likely to have significant environmental effects, and an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not required.
Viewing the Plans
The detailed plans and documents are available to view from 12 June 2025 to 7 August 2025, during public office hours (9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays) at:
Reception Desk, Cork City Council, City Hall, Cork, T12 T997
Or online at: https://consult.corkcity.ie/en
Copies can also be purchased at a cost not exceeding the reasonable cost of reproduction.
Submissions & Observations
Submissions on the proposed development—focused on its alignment with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area—can be made:
Online: https://consult.corkcity.ie/en
By post:
Senior Engineer
Infrastructure Department
City Hall, Cork City, T12 T997
(Please mark the envelope: ‘Mary Street, Douglas Street and White Street Public Realm Enhancement Scheme’)
Deadline: 4:00 PM, Monday, 25 August 2025
Environmental Screening Appeal
Any person may, within 4 weeks from the date of this notice, apply to An Bord Pleanála for a screening determination regarding potential environmental impacts of the development.
Issued on: 12 June 2025
Valerie O’Sullivan
Chief Executive
Cork City Council
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