The first phase opens to the public on Monday.

And with a huge influx of Christmas walkers and cyclists expected at Marina Park, Cork’s newest outdoor recreation area, Cork City Council has reassured the public that toilets will be installed before Christmas, having been delayed by supply chain issues.

In the meantime, there’s loads to check out.

Just 2.5km from the city, Cork’s newest park is adjacent to the Marina, and defined by an iconic steel pavilion that pays homage to the Munster Showground’s Central Hall, which formerly stood at this site.

A central plaza made of natural stone and concrete will be used for events such as markets and gigs once the park is fully operational.

Marina Park has two main functions: a major city park with a variety of attractions and it is also a key climate adaptation intervention; acting as a flood storage basin for the south docklands during periods of pluvial flooding (rainfall).

According to Cork City Council, visitors to the park can look forward to “green space for play and relaxation, water features, lighting, seating, new pathways, bridges and upgraded public parking near Shandon boat club.”

The next phase

Detailed design is underway on the next phase of Marina Park, which will see the development of another 60 acres of parkland from the Atlantic Pond to Blackrock pier, leading to the creation of a ‘regional eco park’.

Plans include woodland, marshland, meadows and water, with ecological trails and resting points in forested areas, a woodland playground and a cultural heritage trail, which will run through the park including safe public access to the Barrington Folly, the old quay walls, the slipway at Dundanion Castle and the Ice Cave.

When fully completed, the park will be six times the size of Fitzgerald’s Park, with an official launch event planned in 2022.

“This park’s design is based upon accessibility for all ages and abilities, encouraging physical activity and supporting ecology, biodiversity, culture and outdoor events,” said Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Colm Kelleher.

“The development of this park also demonstrates how Cork City Council wants the nearby Cork City Docklands to be first and foremost a great place to live as well as a great place to work in and invest in.”