It went from parking space to park space in one day.

Now Cork’s newest parklet is complete and ready for pollinator-friendly planting outside the Imperial Hotel, bringing a burst of nature to the South Mall.

Following the success of the vibrant parklet on Douglas Street, Cork City Council has decided to provide up to 10 more parklets in the city centre and wider city as part of the ‘Reimagining Cork’ programme.

Long day, late finish, but worth it – A new Parklet ready for some pollinator friendly planting @ImperialCork & @CorkZeroWaste. Big thanks to @corkcitycouncil for #ReimaginingCorkCity pic.twitter.com/2DtXojsG9L

— Benchspace Cork (@BenchspaceCork) December 21, 2020

Parklets convert a few parking spaces into public open space and are a cost-effective way to create more vibrant streets, support local business, and provide an inviting green space for residents and passers-by to sit, relax, and interact.

It works like this: Cork City Council fund and install the parklet, while the Parklet Partner is responsible for the day-to-day upkeep of the parklet and its planting.

New parklet has appeared outside the @ImperialCork, looks similar to the @corkfs one, but not planted up yet. v smart pic.twitter.com/qYjnHdEyWc

— Karl Shane Dískín (@KarlDiskin) January 4, 2021

Parklets will initially be in place for one year. After a year, they will be evaluated to consider whether they should be kept in place for another year, replaced with more permanent seating, or moved to a new location.

Main image: Benchspace Cork