More than 800 sign petition to keep outdoor seating on streets of Cork town 

More than 800 people have signed a petition to oppose the removal of “essential” outdoor seating at several hospitality locations in Cobh.

The petition, set up by the owners of Kelly’s Bar, is calling on members of the public to show their support for the continued use of outdoor seating in the East Cork town, particularly outside Kelly’s Bar, The Commodore Hotel, and The Arch Café & Wine Bar.

A spokesperson for Kelly’s Bar said the venue was recently asked to remove its outdoor seating areas after local councillors rejected an application to renew these licences in favour of creating additional car parking spaces.

Tourism

“Cobh is one of Ireland’s most important cruise tourism destinations, welcoming thousands of visitors each week between April and October,” the spokesperson said.

“These visitors come to experience the town’s unique atmosphere, its cafés, restaurants, and renowned hospitality.

“The stated reason [to reject the outdoor seating licence renewal] was to restore just six to seven car parking spaces across the town.

“These [outdoor seating] spaces have become an essential and valued part of Cobh.

“Removing them to reclaim such a small number of parking spaces risks harming the very character that attracts people to our town.

“It also contradicts wider national and local policies aimed at reducing car dependency and promoting more pedestrian-friendly town centres,” they added.

“We urge our local councillors and Cork County Council to clearly demonstrate their support for local businesses by working with us to find a balanced solution.”

At the time of print, the petition had received 811 signatures in favour of maintaining the outdoor seating.

For more information, search ‘Where Sunshine Meets Music & Laughter — Help Us Keep Our Outdoor Seating Area’ on change.org.