HallMcKnight win with modern concept incorporating heritage features

In January 2020, an open one-stage design competition was launched to find a concept for the redevelopment of Bishop Lucey Park in Cork. Now, Cork City Council and the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) have revealed the results, with Belfast firm Hall McKnight Architects taking first prize with a welcoming design that maximises the use of green space, while highlighting heritage features such as the city’s medieval wall. 

Tony Duggan, City Architect, Cork City Council, said: “The winning entry is an inclusive design with something to offer all ages. It opens up the park to the city, creating a central “soft space” with a wildflower meadow right in the city centre, while still being sensitive to the mediaeval history of the site and emphasising the existing city walls within the site itself. It is particularly impressive how cleverly this design integrates the heritage of the city within a modern scheme.”

The park redevelopment is a key part of Cork’s City Centre Strategy, which is integral to improving the quality of amenities in a city that is projected to grow to 300,000 in the next 20 years. As part of this growth, an increasing number of young families are expected to live in the city centre. 

Kathryn Meghen, RIAI CEO and Competition Registrar, said: “Architects deliver value in all aspects of the built environment and continued investment in our public spaces is both necessary and welcome. Recent events have particularly highlighted the importance of our public realm and how public spaces enrich our daily lives. Bishop Lucey Park is an essential public amenity, which should be enjoyed by everyone who lives in and visits Cork city centre.” 

Lucy Nordberg
TenderStream Head of Research

This tender was first published by TenderStream on 09.01.2020 here
 
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