Works begin on Beamish and Crawford Quarter project

Construction on what’s been described as one of the most ambitious public realm projects in Cork city has begun.

Work on the Beamish and Crawford Quarter started this week, Cork City Council has said, and includes the redevelopment of Bishop Lucey Park, the construction of two new pedestrian/cycle bridges, streetscape improvement works on South Main Street, Tuckey Street, French’s Quay, Proby’s Quay, Keyser's Hill, Crosses’ Green, Wandesford Quay and Hanover Place/Hanover Street and other related works such as the restoration of heritage lights on South Gate Bridge.

Enabling works for the two new pedestrian and cycle bridges will start this week. The bridges will provide access to and through the Beamish and Crawford site. The northern bridge will link South Main Street/Lamley’s Lane to Crosses Green, the southern bridge will link French’s Quay/Proby’s Quay to the Beamish & Crawford site and on to South Main Street.

Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Kieran McCarthy welcomed the redevelopment of the area. “This scheme will see a complete rejuvenation of the historical area around the southern gateway to the medieval city, connecting the Grand Parade and a series of historic lanes, streets and Bishop Lucey Park with the south channel of the River Lee and the city centre business and retail district and creating a focal point for people to enjoy.

“The union of new and modern infrastructure appropriate to a growing and thriving European city, with the preservation and restoration of the rich heritage and history of this portion of the city’s medieval spine will connect Cork city’s past, present and future.”

Jons Civil Engineering will carry out the construction of the bridges on behalf of Cork City Council. In addition to installing the two bridges, the contractor will carry out repairs and cleaning of the quay walls where necessary.

A road closure has been put in place to facilitate the construction works on Crosses Green. The closure is from the junction with Wandesford Quay to the junction with Proby’s Quay. The closure will remain in place until May 2025, with diversions in place and local access maintained.

Meanwhile, Cumnor Construction has already commenced work on the redevelopment of Bishop Lucey Park. As part of the scheme, the city centre park will be renewed based on an award-winning architectural design by Hall Mc Knight Architects that will open up the park to the wider city centre.

The scheme is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. The works are funded by the Department of Housing, Planning & Local Government under the under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, with support from the National Transport Authority and Cork City Council.