Enabling works set to begin on Cork city’s two newest bridges

Enabling works for the two new pedestrian and cycle bridges, which will form part of the Beamish and Crawford Quarter infrastructure project, are set to commence this week.

The bridges will provide access to and through the Beamish and Crawford site.

The northern bridge will link South Main St/Lamley’s Lane to Crosses Green while the southern bridge will link French’s Quay/Proby’s Quay to the Beamish and Crawford site and onto South Main St.

Jons Civil Engineering will carry out the construction of the bridges on behalf of Cork City Council.

In addition to installing the two bridges, the city council said the contractor will carry out repairs and cleaning of the quay walls where necessary.

A road closure has been put in place to facilitate the construction works on Crosses Green.

The closure is from the junction with Wandesford Quay to the junction with Proby’s Quay and is set to remain in place until May 2025 with diversions in place.

Cork City Council said local access will be maintained.

The Beamish and Crawford Quarter infrastructure project has been touted as “one of the most ambitious public realm programmes ever undertaken in the city centre”.

The works include the redevelopment of Bishop Lucey Park, the construction of the two new pedestrian and cycle bridges, streetscape improvement works on South Main St, Tuckey St, French’s Quay, Proby’s Quay, Keyser's Hill, Crosses Green, Wandesford Quay and Hanover Place/Hanover St and other related works such as the restoration of heritage lights on South Gate Bridge.

The works are funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage under the under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, with support from the National Transport Authority and Cork City Council.

Cumnor Construction have already commenced work on the redevelopment of Bishop Lucey Park.

As part of the scheme, the city centre park will be renewed based on an award-winning architectural design by Hall Mc Knight Architects.

Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Kieran McCarthy welcomed the redevelopment of the area.

“This scheme will see a complete rejuvenation of the historical area around the southern gateway to the medieval city, connecting the Grand Parade and a series of historic lanes, streets and Bishop Lucey Park with the south channel of the River Lee and the city centre business and retail district and creating a focal point for people to enjoy,” he said.

“The union of new and modern infrastructure appropriate to a growing and thriving European city, with the preservation and restoration of the rich heritage and history of this portion of the city’s medieval spine will connect Cork City’s past, present and future.” 

 The scheme is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

Regular updates on works and related traffic diversions will be posted on www.corkcity.ie and on Cork City Council’s social media channels - Facebook, Instagram and X.