Section 3 Loss of Character
Loss of character- Public Spaces Open spaces within historic areas are extremely important- they have social significane as places where people gathered and traded on a daily basis, and historic and architectural importance as pocal points around which streets and laneways have developed over time. In Shandon, the open spaces are closely linked to its location on the convergence of the main trading routes from Cork City, and the historic location of the Shandon Castle. In the 20th century, Shandon’s open spaces have suffered from car domination, loss of historic features such as street furniture, and cluttering of signage, traffic lights, advertising, fixtures and fittings. Many are no longer used as meeting places or for outdoor trading. Trading was particularly important to the lower end of Shandon Street, at North Gate Bridge, at a gathering space around a cast iron fountain, and is still in the living memory of the people of Cork. The fountain has been removed and is now lost. Due to the modest nature of the older houses in Shandon, whuch lack private gardens, open spaces in Shandon are particularly important for recreation and as play areas. Many open spaces have become enclosed and privatised. Laneways have become increasingly gated. The open space associated with St Mary’s Priory at the bottom of Shandon Street, has been gated and lost to car parking for the new apartments. The restrained palette of materials and carriageways uncluttered by parking were an important part of the historic character of Shandon, as seen on the old photos of the bottom of Shandon Street and the front of the Butter Exchange. Kerbs, jostle stones and bollards of Cork Limestone, and wrough and cast ironwork to street furniture, were traditionally the primary materials, against the backdrop of painted render, timber doors and windows, and limestone and red sandstone walling.
Photograph showing the foot of Shandon Street, n.d. (Fergus O’Connor Collection, National Library of Ireland)
View showing lower Shandon Street, 2024
Firkin Crane Centre, 2024
Project: Historic Character Assessment Client: Cork City Council
Date:
15/10/2024
Pg 19
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