Emmett Place Enhancement Project

In planning/design phase

Emmet-Place-1

Works Extent

The project aims to:

  • Extend the pedestrianisation of Emmett Place from Opera Lane end to Lavitt's Quay. Access will be permitted on Emmett Place to facilitate major deliveries to the Crawford Gallery, for temporary events, emergencies and servicing.
  • Realignment of the pavement on Lavitt's Quay, including the removal of the existing set down area at the northern end of Emmett Place.
  • Upgrade of the footways on Lavitt's Quay from St Patrick's Street to Half Moon Street.
  • Realignment of the carriageway from Half Moon Street/Academy Street towards Drawbridge Street to improve functionality.
  • Construction of raised planters with seating to the northern and southern ends of Emmett Place and the inclusion of visual screen to front of the planter on Lavitt's Quay to enhance sense of enclosure of the civic space
  • Decluttering of the existing area with the removal of redundant street furniture such as bollards and road signage etc and the relocation of bicycle stands to the edges of the space.
  • The provision of raised planters with seating at the eastern railing of the Crawford Gallery.
  • The relocation of the existing loading bay on Emmett Place to its southern end.
  • Renovation and upgrade of the existing public lighting.

 Objectives

 The design aims to transform Emmett Place into a pedestrian-friendly, flexible civic plaza that aligns with the city’s broader urban greening and climate resilience goals.

This people-centric approach prioritizes accessibility, formalises pedestrianization, and introduces urban greening through the integration of trees, planters, and flexible seating.

By enhancing the existing conditions, the design retains and expands the use of the space for public events, gatherings, and leisure, all while minimising the change to necessary loading bay access and accommodating occasional vehicle needs.

 Timeline

The statutory consultation period started on 25 October 2024 and will run until 4pm on 10 January 2025.  Submissions can be made in writing to : Senior Engineer, Infrastructure Development, Cork City Council, City Hall, Cork T12 T997 or online via our public consultation portal on  https://consult.corkcity.ie

The project is expected to be constructed following completion of the redevelopment of the Crawford Gallery. The anticipated start date is 2027.