Coburg Street to close

New traffic arrangements are due to be introduced over the coming weeks around some busy routes in Cork city centre.

This is to facilitate the ongoing construction works on the upgrading of the public realm in Coburg Street, Bridge Street and MacCurtain Street areas. Coburg Street will close to through traffic from Tuesday 31 January. Access to local businesses and homes on Coburg Street will remain, as will emergency access to the street.

Traffic coming from Leitrim Street will be able to continue up Hardwick Street and onto Wellington Road or will exit on to Devonshire Street with the option to turn right towards Blackpool or left towards the city centre. Some new set-down spaces will be on Leitrim Street to allow parents to drop and collect school children and to support short term parking so motorists can access nearby businesses.

All other traffic should follow the signed diversion routes detailed in a video on

Transportforcorkcity.ie.

A council spokesperson said: “This phase of the scheme will deliver upgraded footpaths, new bus stops and shelters, improved public lighting, road resurfacing, lining and other public realm improvements in Coburg Street, Bridge Street and MacCurtain Street. As works progress over the coming weeks, localised lane restrictions will continue on Bridge Street and works will also progress onto the northern footpath of MacCurtain Street.

“The MacCurtain Street Public Transport Scheme, is supporting increased economic activity and providing improved accessibility to the city centre by foot, bicycle and public transport.”

Over the past 12 months, the scheme has delivered:

• New signalised junction on Devonshire Street, facilitating safer pedestrian access from MacCurtain Street area to Shandon area

• 1km of new cycle lanes providing connectivity to the wider cycle network from Shandon Street to the Marina via dedicated cycling facilities

• Over 1,800 metres of resurfaced roadway

• Over 9,600 square metres of public realm and footpath upgrades

• Upgrades to 11 traffic signalised junctions and pedestrian crossings

• 7 new bus stops operational, 3 of these with new shelters provided for passenger comfort

• New northbound lane on Brian Boru Bridge and Brian Boru Street

“Coming into the city is easy, just follow the signage. The council and its contractors wish to thank the public for their ongoing patience as this next phase of the works are undertaken,” added the spokesperson.