It’ll be a new spot for a coffee date.

Construction will begin on the Morrison’s Island Public Realm and Flood Defence project in the coming weeks.

Jons Civil Engineering Company Ltd. has been appointed as the main contractor to carry out the works, taking in the area along Morrison’s Quay and Father Mathew Quay between Parnell Bridge and Parliament Bridge, as well as a small section on Union Quay at Trinity Bridge.

The project will include new footpaths, public seating, a new plaza space and river viewing platform at Parnell Bridge, and public space at Trinity Bridge, as well as an improved public realm at Holy Trinity Church.

According to Cork City Council, the integrated flood defences will provide protection against one-in-100 year tidal flooding events for approximately 400 city centre properties.

The new three-metre-wide riverside promenade will wind along the length of Morrison’s Quay and Father Mathew Quay and traffic will be rerouted to facilitate significant improvements for pedestrians, wheelchair users, and cyclists, including the provision of cycle parking.

Fresh views and new planting 

Refurbished and enhanced heritage features, including street lamps and bollards, are also slated as part of the project, with enhanced views of, and access to, the River Lee and new planting including trees and pollinator-friendly herbaceous plants.

Aaron Mansworth, President of the Cork Business Association (CBA) described the project as “transformative for Morrison’s Island and the entire city”.

“This scheme will significantly enhance visual amenity and unlock commercial potential, highlighted by the multi-million euro redevelopment of the Old Moore’s Hotel site which is now home to Premier Inn, Cork’s newest hotel offering,” he added.

“Crucially, it will provide essential flood protection long campaigned for by CBA, reassuring property owners and businesses by safeguarding their premises and livelihoods.”