Road improvement plan for Cork city docklands approved

Cork city councillors have voted to approve the next stage of the Cork Docklands to City Centre Road Network Improvement Scheme.

In the part 8 planning report for the proposed scheme, the council explained that it will be followed by larger scale infrastructure in the coming years as the redevelopment of the docklands continues.

The project has two primary objectives, to reduce car dependency within the area while increasing the attractiveness of sustainable transport options, and to create “a high quality public realm which helps to build a unique identity for the docklands while promoting community interaction, recreational activity, and a sense of place”.

The proposed works include a city centre bound contra-flow bus lane, an outbound bus lane and a two-way cycle track on Victoria Road and Albert Quay.

The Victoria Road/Centre Park Road roundabout is to be replaced with a signalised junction, while the Monahan Road/Victoria Road Junction and the Old Blackrock Road/Victoria Road junctions are to be improved.

Public realm improvements are proposed for Albert Quay East, Victoria Rd, Albert Rd and Monerea Terrace, as well as access restrictions on Kennedy Quay, and a new residential access link between Marina Terrace and Rosefield Terrace.

Footpaths will be widened and repaved, crossing facilities will be provided at all junctions and public lighting and utility services will be renewed.

Land acquisition will be required to enable some of the measures to be delivered, and the project team will work closely with affected landowners to ensure work is undertaken with minimal disruption.

Eighty-three submissions were received, which the council noted “were generally supportive of the proposals”, with some making suggestions of amendments or improvements. 10 suggested changes were introduced as a result of the public feedback, and were put to council for approval – they were unanimously agreed.

Green party councillor Honore Kamegni said that the project was very positive: “These transformative changes to Victoria Road and Albert Quay are about putting people—not cars—at the heart of our city.

“By prioritising public transport, safe cycling, and walkable streets, we're building a healthier, more connected Cork. This is a vital step toward a cleaner, greener city where public space serves the many, not just the few. I'm proud to support infrastructure that makes sustainable choices the easy choices.” 

Independent councillor Kieran McCarthy welcomed many aspects including investment in the historic area, new trees, the safety measures and the retention of the grotto, but said: “There are still larger issues that need to be tackled. We need to grasp the nettle and to move large trucks moving through the area out of these residential roads.

“My understanding as well that funding in still needed from the NTA for this part 8. We need to get this funding in place, and to work very carefully with residents as this project is being rolled out.”