Park and ride to be extended to city centre ahead of the car ban return

The loss-making park and ride service, run by Cork City Council, currently stops on Lapp’s Quay but will now continue further into the city centre, with between six and eight drop-off locations and services every 15 minutes. The new proposals, which have yet to be formally agreed, are an attempt to appease traders ahead of the proposed reintroduction of a car ban on Patrick Street in August.

The Patrick Street ban on private cars, between the hours of 3pm to 6.30pm, was introduced in March of this year but was withdrawn less than a month later following an angry backlash from local businesses. The ban was paused until August 9 to allow for further consultation between the council and stakeholders, as well as a comprehensive campaign to promote public transport in the area.
The new park and ride route will travel along Parnell Place, Merchant’s Quay, Patrick Street, Grand Parade and South Mall.