Port of Cork applies for planning to upgrade access to Tivoli docks

The Port of Cork Company (PoCC) has submitted an application for planning permission to Cork City Council to significantly upgrade access to and from its Tivoli Docks site in Cork City.

The application follows a public engagement process with local communities and elected representatives from across the political spectrum.

As set out in its Masterplan 2050, PoCC aims to consolidate port operations downstream at Ringaskiddy and at Marino Point, and to transition out of Tivoli Docks and City Quays in the medium to long term.

In preparation for the port’s phased move from Tivoli Docks, the planning application will help prepare the Tivoli lands for redevelopment in the coming years, the company said.

In November 2025, PoCC announced it would be applying for planning permission for new and improved access infrastructure to enable the future redevelopment.

A public information event was held at the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs in Cork later that month with members of the project team present to answer questions. A dedicated microsite was created and several meetings and briefings were also held with local councillors, TDs and other stakeholders in the following months.

The plans include a new eastern multi-modal access interchange at the Glanmire Road roundabout, upgrades to the western access at Silversprings with road, bus and cycleway infrastructure and prioritisation for bus connectivity and active travel to and from the site.

Post consultation, the design team made a slight amendment to improve the proposals for vehicles turning right from the R639 onto the N8 eastbound road. Additional markings on the active travel facility and access roads were also included to ensure safe access to properties adjacent to the scheme.

Ann Doherty, CEO, PoCC, said: “Early planning for enabling infrastructure is a cornerstone of good practice in sustainable development.

“From the outset our goal was to engage the wider public, the immediate community and elected officials nationally and locally with the positive purpose of the project and to increase understanding of the longer-term goals within the community.

“The long-term relocation of port operations to the lower harbour at Ringaskiddy and Marino Point opens a once-in-a-generation opportunity. Tivoli’s transformation could mirror that seen in historic port cities where docklands have been reimagined.” 

Henry Kingston, chief land development officer, PoCC, said: “The PoCC has had extensive consultation with Cork City Council and other state agencies, to ensure alignment with both local and national planning frameworks and integration with transportation.

“We aimed to successfully demonstrate how improved access in and out of Tivoli is a critical step in preparing Tivoli for future regeneration. Throughout the consultation process answering questions on the long-term vision for the project and how it aligns with national policy was key. We took recommendations on board after listening to our stakeholders and we believe we have a very robust plan.” 

The Tivoli enabling transport infrastructure plans were prepared in consultation with Cork City Council and a number of state agencies including Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), and the National Transportation Authority (NTA).