There was great excitement and buzz today in Cork’s busy city centre, as Little Cross Street was transformed almost overnight into a pop-up paradise.
Located just off Washington Street, well-known for its vibrant night life, Little Cross Street received more than a little facelift!
Orchard Grove is a public green amenity within the city, brought to Corkonians by Cork City Council and the Montgomery Group. It is an innovative, first of its kind pop-up installation within Cork City.
Orchard Grove which opened today, will remain open for the remainder of the Summer and up until October.
Little Cross Street which is now closed to all traffic, is instead the home of trees, funky decorative seating, quaint picket fencing and ambient lighting to create a relaxed and warm welcome for all Cork passers-by, who wish to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
This pilot project marks the start of what is hoped will inspire other projects of this calibre, aimed at providing more exciting and different amenities to the Cork people and visitors to the city.
The City Centre Forum is currently in the process of trying to secure a Purple Flag for Cork, which recognises cities with well-managed, diverse, entertaining, and enjoyable evening and night out economies.
Initiatives like Orchard Grove are a significant positive step in aiding Cork to win this accreditation.
Orchard Grove will be open daily from lunch time through to late evening and will offer people not only the comfort of a cosy bench, but also refreshments and Al Fresco dining thanks to the adjacent complex of Reardens Bar.
In the peace and tranquillity of Orchard Grove, diners can select from gourmet sandwiches, traditional pies, brisket sliders, and a wide range of mouth-watering stone baked pizzas.
Publican and Montgomery Group CEO, Paul Montgomery commented, “I was thrilled to work with the team in the Cork City Council to make our Orchard Grove vision a reality.
"As proprietor to a number of venues on Washington Street including Reardens Bar, Preachers and Chambers, I am very proud to be playing a role in delivering this additional public green amenity within the City Centre.
"I am looking forward to seeing Orchard Grove full of life and fun this summer, with everyone outside enjoying the sun and friendly ambiance that this treasure can offer within the heart of our city.”