All About Cork: Clock funding could be start of revitalisation of Shandon

Time will tell all and the time in Shandon will be telling the truth in the future after a quarter of a million euro was secured to restore Cork’s most recognisable timepiece.

Government funding of €250,000 has been secured toward repairs of Cork’s historic Shandon clock.

The funding is part of an allocation of more than €3.5m awarded for the repair of 28 heritage buildings across the country under the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage’s Historic Structures Fund (HSF).

However, a local TD has said it should herald the beginning of a revitalisation of the wider Shandon area.

Cork North Central TD Ken O’Flynn, of Independent Ireland, said other issues need to be addressed in the area such as the reopening of the Shandon craft centre and strong backing for the recently announced Shandon Integrated Urban Strategy being led by Cork City Council through the Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme.

“This funding is essential for restoring the iconic four-faced clock tower, a cherished symbol of our city’s heritage and a stellar feature of the Cork skyline,” Mr O’Flynn said.

“Many of you may remember my recent discussions in the Dáil with the Taoiseach regarding the urgent need for investment to repair the façade of Shandon. I appreciate his commitment to addressing this issue, and today we see that promise come to life. While I am pleased with the funding now secured, it is important to recognise that this may only be the first step in a more extensive restoration process.

“This is indeed a moment to celebrate. The work will ensure that the clock mechanism is restored and the structure is made safe, breathing new life into this historic landmark.

"However, we must remain vigilant about the future needs of Shandon. I am committed to advocating for further investments and support to assure we fully restore this vital area.

“As we stand on the brink of revitalisation for Shandon, I am dedicated to working hand-in-hand with the community to explore every available opportunity for growth and development,” Mr O’Flynn said.

“This is not just about a clock tower; it’s about reigniting the heart of Shandon and ensuring our city flourishes. Alongside the restoration work, we must secure a government commitment to the reopening of the craft centre and the realisation of the Shandon plan established by Cork City Council.”

The Shandon Integrated Urban Strategy was developed in partnership with the Shandon Neighbourhood Team through a consultation process.

Cultural connections at Quay Co-op

Delanys seeks sponsors

Delanys GAA Club is looking for sponsors to assist with the rapid growth of the club in Kilbarry.

A spokesperson for the Dublin Hill-based club said: “With the club growing every year we are looking for
sponsors to get on board
to help us modernise the
club.

“We have some great opportunities for businesses to promote their business.

“We have plenty of activities from the underage to the junior teams to Cork LGFA using the facilities and there is great exposure.

“At the moment we are upgrading our pitch lighting to LED and looking to add solar panels, a scoreboard and dug outs on the underage pitch.

“If there is anyone out there that would like to get involved then please contact Ger on 086 8243300.”

Access to Blackpool Library

Would you like to have the option to use Blackpool Library in the evenings and at weekends?

Well there is now a way to do just that and it’s free.

My Open Library (MOL) allows registered members to access library services from 8am until 10pm, 365 days a year. All you need to do is attend a 30-minute induction course in the library.

During MOL hours, patrons can borrow or return books, print, use the library Wi-Fi or PCs, or if you would just like a quiet environment to work, read, or study at weekends and in the evenings.

There is no charge for this service, or for regular library membership.

To register for an MOL induction course in Blackpool Library, please call the lending desk at 021-4924933 or email: blackpool_library@corkcity.ie.

For a full list of opening hours visit: www.corkcitylibraries.ie/en/locations/blackpool-library/.

The library is based at Redforge Road, Blackpool, Cork, T23 AP11.

Computer and tech classes

Cork’s Further Education and Training Service and Blackpool Community Centre are offering computer study programmes including ‘Get smart with technology’ on Fridays from 10.30am to 12.30pm. The course includes using mobile phones, tablets, apps, and email. The beginners’ computers class takes place from 12.30 to 2.30pm. This includes basic computer skills, keyboard, Word, internet, and email. The classes are free of charge.

Contact Blackpool Community Centre on 021 4501787 or Majella on 085 1558591.

Cork Community Art Link

Cork Community Art Link (CCAL) has thanked all those who helped them with their multi-coloured display at the St Patrick’s Day parade.

CCAL said on Facebook: “What a wonderful way to kick off 2025 with a celebration of collaboration and inspiration! St Patrick’s Day Parade this year featured some fantastic community groups, Brothers of Charity Blackpool Community Access Programme, National Learning Network, Ballyvolane Hub, Cope Foundation, Cork Simon Community, CCAL Drama Troupe, The Quinn Family, and our amazing crew, volunteers and performers.

The post continued: “As always, we’re straight into the design process for our next project so keep an eye out for ways to participate.”

The group featured members of a wide variety of local organisations including Ballyvolane Hub, Horizons (formerly Cope Foundation), National Learning Network, Simon Community, Headway, and the Cork Volunteer Centre.

Parish assemblies

Parish assemblies of the Cathedral, SS Peter & Paul’s, Blackpool, The Glen, and Ballyvolane, will meet at the Cathedral Visitor Centre at 7pm on April 3, April 9, and April 30 for prayer, listening and discernment.

Cathedral Café opening hours

The Cathedral Café’s opening hours are 9am to 3pm on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and from 9am to 1pm on Sunday.

Due to popular demand after their sellout show in 2024, The Bold Ensemble return to Cork Arts Theatre for one night only with their improv Thingimabob on May 6. Their last show at CAT featured hundreds of totally original madcap scenes that The Bold Ensemble have been delighting Cork audiences with for over 10 years.

Dave Ramseyer, Orla Burke, Mark Cosgrave, Micheál Roche, Sheila Kelleher, Ivy Favier, and Aiden O’Brien are The Bold Ensemble.

Not suitable for under 16s. Call 021 4505624 or see www.corkartstheatre.com for ticket details.

Parish lotto draw

The parish lotto jackpot has reached the sum of €15,000, with a €1,375 consolation prize also up for grabs. You can watch the draw today on facebook.com/corkcathedral.

Have Blackpool, Ballyvolane and Shandon news to share? Contact robert.mcnamara@theecho.ie