Survey shows what draws people to Cork city centre

Up to 57% rate Cork city centre for its safety and security.

That’s according to research by IPSOS Behaviour and Attitudes on what people would like to see in Cork city centre which was presented during a symposium yesterday.

Cork City Council gathered a range of stakeholders to review upcoming projects at the symposium.

With upgrade works underway at Bishop Lucey Park, Tuckey Street and South Main Street and the Morrison’s Island Public Realm and Flood Protection Scheme due to start in the coming weeks, there is, Cork City Council said, momentum behind Cork city centre. This activity comes two years after the adoption of the City Centre Plan which seeks to position Cork as an attractive place to work, live and visit, the council said.

The survey found more than two thirds are opting to use public transport when visiting Cork city centre. Up to 63% travel to the city centre by bus while 5% take a train. Up to 20% use a car while 32% walk.

Shopping, dining, work, socialising in bars, events or concerts are the main reasons people visit the city centre by day.

Visits to bars, restaurants, cafés, live music events and concerts, cinema and theatre are the main reasons people visit by night. Its compact nature and ease of socialising are amongst people’s favourite things about the city. Its variety of shops and broad arts and cultural offering are also prized.

The council said while the city centre has seen some closures over recent years, the private sector continues to invest in retail, hospitality and housing.

Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Dan Boyle said: “The plans for Cork city centre are ambitious, but it is important that they are implemented. We can see construction...and this is expected to continue over the next number of years, transforming the experience of the city centre and making it a more enjoyable and pleasant place.”