As part of the Phased Reopening, Cork County Council has developed plans to ensure that Schull can safely reopen in line with the latest public health guidelines. Schull is delighted to be included on the list of towns to be prioritised by Cork County Council. The tremendous effort they are making to ensure Schull is a safe and welcoming place for the wider community is very reassuring. Several shops in town opened their doors today for the first time in 12 weeks, much to the delight of shoppers.
The HSE’s current guideline restrictions regarding social distancing remains at 2m. The plans to improve the streetscape in Schull will ensure adequate space to comply with these requirements.
The initial phase will begin in the coming days and include alterations to the streetscape, where footpaths will be broadened using temporary bollards, so it may be shared safely by pedestrians, through traffic and deliveries. Age friendly/short-term parking spaces for the vulnerable will be made available on Main Street and at the East End Car Park. Further measures will see the installation of signage directing customers to the numerous free carparks in Schull.
Social Distancing will significantly limit the internal space of most premises but the additional space created by widening the footpaths, will have flower boxes with seating attached and extra seating and picnic tables will be provided around town.
The playground will re-open soon and when the new equipment for its upgrade arrives it will be installed without delay and the pontoon will shortly be reinstalled for the summer season. Tidy Towns has acquired a new bicycle stand which will be installed at the East End car park to encourage the use of bicycles. They will also adorn the village with hanging baskets and planters.
As we progress through the Phases of re-opening, amendments may be made to the plan as more businesses open up in the coming weeks.
