It’s got a ‘village within a city’ vibe.

And that’s the feeling Cork City Council is hoping to protect and enhance as it opens the Part 8 Planning public consultation for the Mary Street, Douglas Street, and White Street Public Realm Enhancement Scheme.

The proposed upgrades include a range of measures, including pedestrian zones, one-way traffic systems, rationalisation of parking, enhanced public spaces, new street furniture and high-quality landscaping.

The scheme also includes the creation of a new neighbourhood pocket park at the eastern end of Douglas Street, providing much needed open space for the community of the South Parish area, which is one of the oldest inhabited parts of the city.

Settlements in the area date back to the 10th Century and the Red Abbey, Cork’s oldest surviving medieval structure, was built in the late 13th or early 14th century.

“The area is currently characterised by its narrow streets, high traffic volumes, constrained pedestrian environment and limited public spaces. These conditions have long posed challenges for residents, businesses, and visitors.” said a Council spokesperson.

Check out the plans 

Two public consultation open days will be held in Nano Nagle Place, where members of the public can view the plans, meet members of the design team and make their submissions.

Residents, local businesses, and other stakeholders are invited to share their views on the proposals, and contribute valuable feedback—an essential step toward shaping the best possible future for their neighbourhood.

These events will take place on Friday, June 20th 2025 from 9.30 a.m. to 7 p.m and Friday, July 4th, 2025 from 9.30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Details of the scheme, the drawings and associated images will be available to view on the Cork City Council Consult platform from today, Thursday, June 12th, 2025.