Future Cork: The city centre enters a new golden age after decades of change

Cork has seen war and peace, boom and bust, and on more than one occasion the flat of the city has risen Phoenix-like from the ashes of total annihilation, writes Cónal Creedon

Shandon St, Cork: The practice of living over the shop is returning, breathing new life into well-worn streets. Picture: Larry Cummins

Statio Bene Fida Carinis — A Safe Harbour for Ships — the motto on the Cork coat of arms underscores our proud maritime heritage while announcing to the world that this is a safe and welcoming city, a city that stretches out a hand of friendship to all.

The fundamental principle of a functioning society is the provision of housing, education, employment, health and safety for its citizens. Beyond those salient responsibilities we are judged by how we interrelate with each other and how we interact with visitors.