Councillor brands street coffee shop a ‘monstrosity’

A COFFEE shop being built as part of the multi-million euro revamp of Cork’s Grand Parade has been branded a “monstrosity”.

Several city councillors criticised the design and location of one of two of the new structures and said they are concerned it is blocking a spectacular view of the landmark entrance to Bishop Lucey Park.

But city manager Joe Gavin defended it and said it will create a focal point on the boulevard.

The coffee pod is a steel and glass outlet located on a vast plaza area which has been built outside the city centre park.

It is one of two pods — the other is being built outside the city library — which are designed to promote the city’s growing “cafe culture”.

Work on the superstructures has begun in recent weeks.

But Cllr Dave McCarthy (FF) raised serious concerns about its design during a council meeting on Monday.

He questioned Mr Gavin on how a structure that is obliterating the views of Bishop Lucey Park’s impressive stone gates got planning permission.

He asked if Mr Gavin was happy that the view of the park from the Grand Parade entrance of the English Market, used by thousands of tourists every year, was blocked.

He also asked him to concede it was a mistake to allow the kiosk be built in the first place and to order its immediate removal.

Cllr Denis Cregan branded it a “monstrosity”.

“It’s a mistake. It’s a disaster. The park gates are a protected structure and we’re blocking them.”

But Mr Gavin said plans for the kiosks were publicly advertised last April and went on display until May.

Councillors were subsequently advised of the projects under the terms of the part 8 planning process and the scheme was approved, he said.

“It is worth remembering prior to the Grand Parade redevelopment the view of the park gates from the English Market was screened by two lines of trees, one along the former centre island and the other along the old kerb line in front of the park,” said Mr Gavin.

“There was an unsightly car parking area in the centre of the Grand Parade that has now been removed.

“The new scheme has vastly improved the use of the space and the designers have given a great deal of thought to the overall layout and in particular the junction between the park and Grand Parade.”

He said the designers based their decision to locate an attraction at this location for the following reasons:

* It creates a focal point at a critical junction on the street.

* It will assist in supervising activities in the park.

* It will reinforce the recreational activities of the park and draw them on to the wider pedestrian pavement.

He said designers had selected a slender glass box design and once complete, it will both enhance the attractiveness and bring a new ambience to the street.