Stunning new drone footage gives us our first 2025 update on Cork’s major Marina Park project.
The video – published by YouTuber DroneHawk – starts with an overview of the Marina Promenade route, which had its grand re-opening last month. From the high footfall alone we can clearly see the amenity is a big hit for those looking to get their steps up in the New Year. The full 1.8km pathway has plenty of riverside benches and plazas – perfect for family strolls or friends looking to meet up for a quick walk and a coffee.
And the great news is there’s plenty more to come as part of the Marina Park project. The footage also gives us a quick look at other works in the area to kick-off 2025, including an update on the snazzy 4m-tall ‘tree walkway’.
You can check out the full video below:
It shows works on the platform have progressed a fair bit since we last saw in November, with guard rails, proper surfacing and drainage grates installed along the route. The walkway hasn’t extended too far yet – but the footage gives us a good idea of what it’ll look like when works are done and dusted.
Keep in mind too that it hasn’t reached its max height yet, as the platform is expected to be as tall as of a giraffe at its peak. The Council say the new build will give walkers a ‘unique viewpoint’ of the full park’s grounds, over the surrounding trees and out into Cork city.
The start of the elevated walkway – it has a gentle slope to allow for wheelchair access
(Image: DroneHawk)
The video also gives us a look at the historic Barrington’s Folly castle, which was previously ‘hidden’ by trees that were cleared for recent works. This building has a main hall with a large connected tower and – according to former Lord Mayor Cllr. Kieran McCarthy – was once a popular social club called the Ballintemple Corporation.
The castle itself is currently closed off to the public – restoration works are planned on site as part of the Marina Park project.
The video also gives us a quick look at the Atlantic Pond, which will eventually be home to a new amphitheatre that overhangs the water. This will also be linked to the Marina Promenade.
The first 20 acres of the Marina Park opened in December 2021 after two years of construction delays due to Covid. Once finished, the park will be a massive 79 acres – six times the size of Fitzgerald Park.