Big changes are coming to St Patrick’s Street.

Cork City Council has just revealed plans for a brand new pilot scheme aimed at making the heart of the city greener, cleaner and a lot more people-friendly.

The updates will focus on the plaza area near Winthrop Street and the space outside Dunnes Stores — and honestly, it sounds like Pana could be getting a serious glow-up.

A spokesperson for Cork City Council said: “St Patrick’s Street is the civic spine of our city, and these improvements are about giving people more reasons to stop, sit and enjoy it. We look forward to engaging with stakeholders in the weeks ahead and delivering a greener, cleaner and more attractive public space for all.”

So what’s changing? 

• Some bus stops will move slightly further up the street
• New seating areas are being added
• More trees, shrubs and greenery are on the way
• Old railings, shelters and unused street furniture are being removed
• More open space for people, performances and city centre events

The whole idea is to declutter the street, improve public transport flow and make the city centre feel more welcoming and enjoyable to spend time in.

The project is being funded by the National Transport Authority, and work is expected to begin shortly. Details of the scheme are available on the City Council’s consultation portal with submissions invited from June 15th.

TBH… more seating and greenery in town? We’ll take it.