City woos shoppers

MUSIC, street entertainment and a number of competitions are being planned jointly by the Cork Business Association and Cork City Challenge in an effort to encourage shoppers back into Cork city centre in time for the traditional Christmas shopping spree.

With fears that many shoppers have been driven out of the city by the main drainage work, businesses leaders are anxious to do something to woo them back.

Cork City Challenge co-ordinator Liz McAvoy said it was hoped to have a two-day promotional launch in the last weekend of November. “Some of the ideas currently under consideration include seasonal music, entertainment and surprises on the street heralding the completion of phase 1 and 2 of the Patrick Street refurbishment project and creating a family traditional shopping experience in the heart of the city.”

She added there could also be in-store promotions, and competitions run in the print and radio media. In addition, the hotel sector was exploring special shopping breaks for visitors from slightly further afield

Ms McAvoy said the restaurant sector will be looking at special dining promotions.

The city had a great deal to offer with over 600 shops and stores, 180 pubs, cafes and restaurants for eating and drinking, almost 8,000 parking spaces, cinemas, galleries, theatres and museums.

“On street car parking is now on high volume rotation, the on island and off island multi-storey car parks are convenient and very close to all of the prime shopping and entertainment areas.”