Rearden's Bar refused planning to retain outdoor seating

Planners cited the development's 'negative visual impact' and obstruction to road users in its decision to refuse planning

Rearden's outside tables are located on Little Cross Street. Pic: Larry Cummins.

Reardens of Washington Street, one of Cork's biggest pubs, has been refused planning to retain its outdoor seating.

KMont Properties Holdings Limited, acting on behalf of Reardens, had sought permission from Cork City Council to retain its existing external seating area and surrounding structure on Little Cross Street.

It had also lodged plans to install metal frames and glass panels over the existing development to create a sheltered seating enclosure. 

However, planners said the location of the proposed development and area to be retained was on an existing pedestrian footpath and a section of the public street, adding that both the existing and proposed developments would inhibit access for emergency service vehicles.

Planners also noted that its placement would endanger the safety of pedestrians and road users by reason of traffic hazards or obstruction of road users.

The Council also said in their refusal that the proposed and existing developments would have a "negative visual impact" due to their location and would "adversely affect the character" of nearby protected structures and North Main Street's Architectural Conservation Area.

Well-known publican and owner of Clancy's Bar in Cork city, Paul Montgomery said in a submission to Rearden's planning application that he "wholly supports public realm improvements" but that Rearden's neighbour, Dwyers, which also has outdoor seating was granted only temporary permission.

Mr Montgomery sought that if planning was granted, Rearden's outdoor seating would also have just temporary permission, the duration for which would coincide with that of Dwyers which is until 2025.

Reardens Bar has operated in Cork city for more than 25 years, with its outdoor seating area popularised during the covid pandemic.

Last year, the Reardens group, which employs more than 220 people, posted an 46% increase in turnover, totalling just under €18m in the twelve months ending in March, 2023. The Group, which comprises several other pubs and bars across Cork recorded a pre-tax profit of €4.45m in the same period, up 33% on the previous year.