POPULAR Cork bar Reardens is taking over the adjacent Little Cross Street for the next three months using astroturf, party lights and seating to create an outdoor atmosphere.
In a pilot scheme to create a new public realm the street will be closed to vehicle traffic until early October, with the support of Cork City Council and the gardaí. Little Cross Street links Washington Street with Hanover Street.
Reardens owner, Paul Montgomery, told the Evening Echo that management at the bar have been in talks for some time with the Council about converting the entire street to create a public space that would add to the attractiveness of the area.
“From Friday we will converting it into a much nicer public space with astroturf on the ground, trees, plants, tables, chairs and new lighting. We are making a big effort to make it look pretty.People will be able to use the space to eat, have a drink and relax. When we get good weather in Ireland we really embrace it and try to enjoy it as much. This will hopefully be a positive thing for the area.”
Little Cross Street. Picture:Des Barry