Cllr Mick Finn: ‘Listen to public on Patrick St traffic ban’

Cllr Mick Finn said the plan, which is being introduced at the same time as proposed traffic changes around Grenville Place, will have a huge impact on people living in the Middle Parish, the city’s biggest residential area.

The two projects are the first two phases of the Cork City Centre Movement Strategy which have been advertised for public consultation.

Mr Finn said the two schemes combined will have a massive impact on residents in the Middle Parish.

He criticised the rejection of every single suggestion made by residents and businesses on Barrack St as part of the public consultation on the introduction of one-way traffic there over a year ago.

He said public consultation under way now must be meaningful.

“These plans look great on computer but we must listen to the people who live and work in these areas,” he said.

“We must ensure that whatever plans are implemented do not negatively effect their lives or businesses.”

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The proposed pedestrianisation of Cork’s main street will see private cars banned between 12.30pm and 6.30pm seven days a week, officials announced.

The restrictions will not apply to buses, taxis, emergency vehicles and cyclists.

The changes at Grenville Place, near the busy Mercy University Hospital, include making it one-way eastbound, with return traffic using Grattan St.

There are also plans to regularise parking in the area, and to provide two new ambulance parking bays.

Cllr Tom O’Driscoll said he could see no reason why people would want to drive through St Patrick’s St, given the lack of parking and the number of traffic lights.

Cllr Ted Tynan called for a cultural mindshift from the private car.

Cllr Seán Martin also warned against the impact of the proposed changes on the residential areas of the city centre.

RELATED: Car ban looms for St Patrick’s Street as Cork’s traffic set for overhaul

The head of the city’s roads directorate, Gerry O’Beirne said officials are anxious to have as detailed public consultation as possible.

Maps of the proposed changes are available free of charge from City Hall and details will be published on the council’s website this week, he said.

A series of public and stakeholders’ meetings are also planned, he added.

Submissions from the public are invited before June 5.

Pending feedback, and the delivery of certain engineering work on key junctions, it is hoped the St Patrick’s Street car ban will kick in by the middle of next year.

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