All About Cork: Pedestrian-only access is restored at Pearse Square

Further progress has been made as part of the Ballyphehane Tidy Town’s Pearse Square Rejuvenation Project, as pedestrian only access is restored in the square.

The construction of a barrier at the Father Dominic Road entrance of the square comes following concerns raised by residents and business owners and is hoped to further improve the safety of the area.

“Since starting our Pearse Square Rejuvenation Project over three years ago we’ve been listening to local concerns and working closely with Cork City Council, and we’re happy to share that a barrier has now been installed to help restore Pearse Square as the pedestrian zone it was originally designed to be,” a representative for Ballyphehane Tidy Towns said.

The Pearse Square Rejuvenation Project aimed to revitalise a once-neglected public space in Ballyphehane, transforming it into a vibrant community hub. The project addressed several challenges, including the square’s appearance, lack of community engagement, and safety concerns.

“Since 2020, vehicles entering the square have damaged tiles, created trip hazards, damaged drainage and even reversed into light poles and planters — making the area unsafe, especially for children and older residents.

“We know some will be disappointed and angry that parking is no longer allowed in the square, but public safety has to come first.”

Locals are assured that emergency services have been notified of the change and have full access to the barrier 24/7, as do community gardaí who Ballyphehane Tidy Towns have said are aware and supportive of the change.

“We’re now continuing to work with the council to improve road markings around the square so that nearby parking is used as efficiently as possible.

“Thank you to the residents, local businesses, Cork City Council, and everyone who helped make this happen. We’re committed to making Pearse Square a safer, more welcoming space for families, shoppers, and the entire community.”

The success of the Pearse Square Rejuvenation Project to date has been largely due to the active involvement of the local community.

Volunteers from all walks of life came together to contribute to the project, from planting flowers and painting murals to maintaining the square’s features.

The project has also fostered partnerships with local businesses and organisations, such as Ballyphehane’s Men Shed, and Cork City Council, who provided resources and support.

Lough Playground refit

An online campaign has been launched to secure funding for the refurbishment of the Lough Playground.

Taking to Change.org, petition starter Katie O’Regan wrote: “As a resident who deeply values the communal essence of our area, the Lough holds a special place in our hearts. However, the current state of the playground is in need of renovation and improvement to make it accessible and engaging for all.

“Instead of patching up the various holes in the playground we need to properly renovate, whilst also including something such as a sand pit area to make it more inclusive and appropriate for sensory seekers. Neglecting this playground means failing our community and the generations to come.”

More can be found at https://shorturl.at/1dJ21.

A great year at the Change Cafe

The Change Cafe celebrated one year since its inception with a special anniversary event last week.

Created as a safe space where women can find out more about menopause and female health, it is open to all and free to attend. It’s a collaboration between the HSE and several local community organisations.

Gráinne O’Connell, representative for the Change Cafe committee said: “A year ago, we launched a community initiative set up to empower and support women with free information to help them navigate positively through their journey of menopause and general health.

“We are really proud of our achievements over the past 12 months.

“We have had some wonderful speakers, we have learned so much, we have supported and encouraged each other, and have had some great fun along the way.”

The cafe attendees celebrated their anniversary in style with a demonstration from local beautician Kim McAuliffe.

Student council hosts schools for day of teamwork

Members of the Coláiste Éamann Rís Student Council welcomed fellow students from a number of Cork schools for a day of teamwork and collaboration.

The student council hosted students from Edmund Rice Schools such as Midleton CBS, Christian Brothers College, Nagle Rice, Doneraile, and Edmund Rice College Carrigaline.

The students worked together, shared ideas, discussed their projects, and explored solutions to challenges faced by their peers.

“It was a great day of bonding, fostering a caring school community and inspiring creativity and co-operation among everyone involved,” said event organisers.

Parent group seeks leader

Turner’s Cross Parent and Toddler Group is seeking an individual to take over its running.

“We are looking for people who would be willing to take on the responsibilities of running the group or assisting with running the group every Friday from September. Without this, the group may no longer be able to continue.”

The group runs each Friday morning in Turner’s Cross Community Centre.

Contact Ann for details on 087-6654387.

Bealtaine collaboration

Ballyphehane Togher Community Development Project CLG is delighted to announce a new collaboration with Tory Top Library, Cork City Libraries, and Cork City Partnership as part of the 2025 Bealtaine Festival.

The groups will work together to present an intergenerational project which will include artists from Ballyphehane Arts Network, Ballyphehane Togher Community Arts and Crafts Initiative, Cork 2nd Scout Group, and Foróige Youth Project Togher as part of the month-long festival.

Established in 1995, Bealtaine is one of Ireland’s largest co-operative festivals and the world’s first national celebration of creativity in older age. The festival is run by Age and Opportunity, the leading national development organisation working to enable the best possible quality of life for all as we age.

The Ballyphehane project will be titled ‘Every Day is a New Chance’ and will be displayed on the wall of Tory Top Library. This art display will become a focal point for people, young and old, to interact within the community.

As part of the initiative, a workshop was held with Cork artist Davy Dummigan.

The launch of the project will be held in Tory Top Library on May 21.

Community forum

The public is invited to attend Togher Community Forum in co-operation with An Garda Síochána. The event is to be held on Tuesday, April 29, at 7pm in Togher Community Centre.

Cherry Blossom Festival

Ballyphehane Tidy Towns urges locals to save the date as the renowned Cherry Blossom Festival returns to Ballyphehane from May 2 to 4.

Expect community fun, flowers in full bloom, and great vibes all weekend long.

Have Ballyphehane, Togher and Turner's Cross news to share? Contact elaine.whelan@theecho.ie