Announcement has been made by Cork City Council of a grant by the National Transport Authority of e.800.000 to fulfil the second phase of redevelopment at Blackrock Village pier. This entails the creation of a stepped down plaza area into the river. Independent Cllr Kieran McCarthy noted; “this is great news for Blackrock residents and those who walk and enjoy the Marina and Blackrock area. The pier area will now be the focus of envy of other small coastal villages in Ireland. The scheme will complement the existing pier area and put the focus back even more on the important relationship between the pier and the river. It also comprises very good urban design and will create a vibrant public realm space for people to enjoy this corner of historic Cork”. Work will shortly conclude on phase one i.e. the widening of roads in the area and phase 2, the plaza area is said to begin in the early months of next year.