Emmet Place is in line for a major upgrade in 2027.

But before the plans are finalised for the large city plaza, Cork City Council is inviting the public to submit suggestions on how the space should be used.

The public consultation on the Emmett Place Enhancement Project is open until January 10th, 2025.

The Crawford Gallery is about to commence works on a major redevelopment, which will include the relocation of its main entrance to Emmett Place. Following this work and to complement the redeveloped gallery, Cork City Council is proposing to carry out upgrading and enhancement work in the surrounding areas.

Artist impression, Cork City Council

The project aims to improve the existing public realm, improve accessibility, extend the pedestrianisation of Emmett Place and create a flexible, people-centred civic space, suitable for temporary events while maintaining as much of the existing fabric as possible.

The plan is to extend the pedestrianisation of Emmett Place from Opera Lane end to Lavitts Quay. Access will be permitted on Emmett Place to facilitate major deliveries to the Crawford Gallery, for temporary events, emergencies and servicing.

The project will also include the realignment of the pavement on Lavitts Quay, including the removal of the existing set-down area at the northern end of Emmett Place, and an upgrade of the footways on Lavitts Quay from St Patricks St to Half Moon Street.

As well as new lighting, the plans include the construction of raised planters with seating to the northern and southern ends of Emmett Place and the inclusion of a visual screen in front of the planter on Lavitt’s Quay to enhance the sense of enclosure of the civic space

Redundant street furniture such as bollards and road signage will be removed the bicycle stands will be relocated to the edges of the space to make way for more planters and seating.

The closing date for all submissions is on Tuesday, January 10th 2025 at 4pm and you can find out more here.