Final few days for public to have their say on the permanent pedestrianisation of the Marina

The public consultation for the permanent pedestrianisation of the Marina will close to submissions on Monday, November 2.

The proposal to continue restricting vehicular access to the Marina went to public consultation on Friday, September 25.

The proposal is to close the Marina to cars 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, from its junction with the northern entrance of Páirc Uí Chaoimh to its junction with Church Avenue.

Independent Cork city councillor Kieran McCarthy spoke in favour of permanently pedestrianising the Marina.

"To open up public consultation on the pedestrianisation of the Marina is very welcome. 

"Up to this year and for many years previously, the pedestrianisation process had been a goal of local councillors and many local residents and, in fairness to Roads officials and the Director of Operations, they have responded to public calls.

Mr McCarthy encouraged the public to have their say if they have not already done so.

"During Covid-19 lockdowns, the pedestrianisation of the road as a temporary measure was the lifesaver for many people who needed the outlet to walk and just take time out during the 2km and 5km restrictions. 

"I have had much correspondence by locals and other Corkonians calling for the continuance of the pedestrianisation beyond the phase 1 temporary measures. 

"Many have emphasised to me the importance of this historic tree-lined avenue to public health and recreational use.

"However, I have also received correspondence from those who wish to tweak some of the parts of the pedestrianisation proposals. 

"It is important that everyone gets their voice heard on the future of the Marina," he said.

The closing date for submissions is on or before 5pm on Monday, November 2.

Submissions may be made online at consult.corkcity.ie or in writing to 'Senior Executive Engineer, Traffic Operations, Room 339, City Hall, Cork'.