'Let's Talk Shandon': Public invited to have their say on development of historic Cork area

People in Cork are being encouraged to engage in a public consultation for a strategy for the development of Shandon.

Cork City Council and their project partners, AtkinsRéalis, John McLaughlin Architects, and the Shandon community are developing an “ambitious, heritage-led integrated urban strategy (IUS) for the Shandon area”.

The local authority said the strategy will set out “a visual, action-based roadmap for the future development and revitalisation of this historic neighbourhood”.

The project is funded through the Government’s Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme (THRIVE) and a drop-in consultation event takes place this Saturday, August 17, from 10am to 5pm, at the Dance Cork Firkin Crane Centre, Shandon.

“We’re excited to hold the ‘Let’s Talk Shandon’ drop-in consultation event this Saturday, as we’re keen to hear people’s views in helping us shape the future of Shandon,” senior executive planner at Cork City Council, Sharon McDonnell, said.

“Everybody is welcome to attend, and we will be eager to hear as much feedback as possible to ensure the plan is responsive to the needs of those who use the community most.”

Fianna Fáil councillor in the city’s North West ward, Tony Fitzgerald, encouraged people to have their say. 

“Delighted with this initiative by Cork City Council. There is so much heritage and history attached to the Shandon area, but great opportunities to develop it as a place to visit and to live in. I encourage as many people as possible to engage in the consultation process.

“There may be a need to expand the consultation to a generation that lived in the heart of the area, with stories of the North Chapel, Shandon, the butter market, music, and trade on Shandon Street. These stories could shape the future of the area,” he added.

Independent councillor Kieran McCarthy said. “This is very welcome and kind of builds on the back of previous local development plans. There is energy there within the community and I think they need to be some of the principal stakeholders going forward.”