Next Steps for Sustainable Mobility in Cork
On 26th November, The Environmental Forum, Cork City Council and The Transport & Mobility Forum (TMF) came together for the fourth EMBRACER Regional Stakeholders Meeting. Held in the historic Council Chambers at Cork City Hall, the event brought together leading voices in mobility and sustainability to share insights, discuss progress, and chart the next steps for active and sustainable transport in the Cork region.
Under the theme "Learnings and Next Steps", the meeting spotlighted successful Good Practices from the EMBRACER project, explored their application locally, and fostered collaboration among eleven key stakeholders. Attendees included representatives from the Environmental Forum, Cork City Council, UCC, Bus Éireann, Cork Sports Partnership, Get Ireland Walking, Green Schools, the Senior Citizens Parliament, and the Step Up project.
The event was launched by the Environmental Forum and TMF Coordinator Dr Darren McAdam O'Connell, who outlined key achievements and lessons from the EMBRACER project since its inception in March 2023. Darren shared findings from the October Exchange of Experience event in Vilnius, Lithuania, which focused on “Rethinking Modal Integration Between Public Transport and Shared, Connected Autonomous Mobility.”
These insights sparked discussion around the possibility of integrating autonomous mobility solutions in Cork, with potential pilots addressing last-mile connectivity. Particular emphasis was placed on connecting regional communities, such as Douglas and Ballincollig, to essential amenities and healthcare facilities.
Identifying Good Practices in Cork was explored with stakeholders reviewing successful initiatives like Cork’s Open Streets events, which promote active and public transport by transforming city spaces into car-free zones for cultural and community activities. Bus Éireann’s expanded routes and improved frequency, including a 24-hour service to Ballincollig were also recognised as significant steps towards enhanced regional mobility. Meanwhile, the Get Cork Walking initiative was highlighted for encouraging active travel and promoting health and sustainability.
Infrastructure such as Cork City Council’s Mount Vernon Bridge which opened in November 2023, was discussed, this pedestrian and cycle path links Grange/Frankfield with Tramore Valley Park and extends to Douglas and the city centre. It prioritises accessibility for people with mobility needs while reducing car dependency.
Stakeholders then explored how to enhance communication and dissemination of EMBRACER activities and Good Practices. A roundtable discussion focused on reaching wider audiences through improved social media strategies and press coverage to raise awareness of Cork’s regional mobility projects and EMBRACER outcomes.
The gathering underscored the importance of continued collaboration to influence current and future policies under the Cork City Development Plan 2022-2028. Stakeholders also contributed to preparations for the upcoming Exchange of Experience event in Cork next April, which will provide further opportunities to share innovative practices and deepen local and European partnerships.
The 4th Regional Stakeholders Meeting reaffirmed Cork’s commitment to advancing sustainable and active transport solutions. With shared experiences and strengthened alliances, Cork continues to position itself as a leader in mobility innovation, fostering a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable future.