Steps from Horgan’s Quay to Lower Glanmire Road steps closed since 2021 may open soon

Steps at Kent Station that have been closed since they were installed in 2021 will be “taken in charge” by Cork City Council, so could be open to the public soon.

The steps, leading up from Horgan’s Quay to the Lower Glanmire Road, were completed as part of the €160m Horgan’s Quay site, which is being developed by Clarendon Properties and BAM Ireland, but have not been accessible.

Green Party councillor for the city’s North East ward, Oliver Moran, who had previously raised the matter at Cork City Council, asked again about their future at a recent local-area committee meeting.

Strategic and economic director of services, Fearghal Reidy, said, “The steps were constructed by Clarendon/BAM as part of the Horgan’s Quay development and are under private ownership.

“The developer has advised that they plan to submit a request for the areas they propose to be ‘taken in charge’ by Cork City Council.

“They indicated the request will be submitted before the end of the year and will include the steps referenced by councillor Moran, as well as other areas within the development.

“Once the request has been received by Cork City Council it will be processed accordingly.”

Mr Moran told The Echo, “It’s been frustrating for commuters, and anyone else passing by the steps every day, seeing them stay closed.

“A pedestrian crossing was installed at the same time, leading from the Victorian steps at Clifton Terrace.

“These should create a natural line from St Luke’s to the North Docks: That’s blocked by the new steps not being open.”

He added, “The steps will also connect the new affordable and cost-rental apartments, under construction at Horgan’s Quay, directly with the St Luke’s area.”