You’ll be seeing them in town from this week on.

Four newly appointed City Wardens have taken to the streets to engage with businesses, residents and visitors, helping ensure the city is welcoming for all.

The new pilot City Centre Warden Scheme was been launched in Cork to promote and enhance the city centre experience as part of an initiative facilitated and part-funded by Cork City Council, in partnership with Cork Business Association (CBA) and An Garda Síochána, following a proposal by the CBA.

The new warden roles were advertised earlier this year and a large number of applications were received. Four candidates were selected, and they have undergone induction and training in recent weeks.

James Hurley, Beaumont, p​ictured with the new Cork city centre wardens.

They will work in shifts across the week, with a presence in the city in the mornings, afternoons and evenings as well as on public holidays and for major events like St Patrick’s Day, the Jazz Festival, and Corkmas.

The wardens will act as visible ambassadors for the city centre, signposting and offering assistance to the public, supporting local businesses, and identifying issues such as graffiti, littering or damage to the public realm for follow-up by city council teams.

While they will not have enforcement powers, the wardens will be able to raise issues directly with relevant services to ensure swift responses.

‘The wardens will strengthen pride in the city’

“I wish the wardens well as they embark on their new role.” said chief executive of Cork City Council, Valerie O’Sullivan.

“We encourage everyone — residents, retailers, and visitors alike — to engage with the wardens and support this initiative. Their presence is a reflection of our collective pride in Cork and our shared ambition to create a city centre that is welcoming, well-maintained, and full of life.”

Dave O’Brien, President of Cork Business Association, said the scheme is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the city’s environment and support the business community.

“The wardens will help strengthen pride in the city, support businesses, and enhance the experience for everyone who spends time in the city centre. The CBA would like to thank Government, Cork City Council and An Garda Síochána to help make this vision a reality,” he said.

Photos: Alison Miles / OSM PHOTO