The Irish Times

Cork's main thoroughfare, Patrick Street, was officially reopened yesterday, following a two-year €13 million facelift. The new design significantly reduces the space given to traffic with over half of the area from Merchant's Quay to Daunt Square being pedestrianised. The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr Seán Martin, said the redevelopment of Patrick Street gave "a European flavour to the city. That is a vision the city council has had for the last number of years. We wanted to create a city centre that is pedestrian friendly." City manager Mr Joe Gavin said the redesign of Patrick Street by Catalan architect Ms Beth Gali reflected the pride and spirit of Cork. Hundreds of people attended the reopening. Bishop John Buckley and Bishop Paul Colton performed a joint blessing of the street, following the unveiling of a plaque on Winthrop Street to mark the handing back of "Pana" to the people after months of building disruption.