Cork County Council Unveils New Year-round Outdoor Dining Facilities for Bantry

A group of people standing outside a restaurant

Cork County Council has announced the successful completion of new European-style permanent outdoor dining facilities in Bantry town centre. The facilities, funded by Fáilte Ireland under the ‘Local Authority Weatherproofing and Outdoor Dining Infrastructure’ scheme, will greatly enhance the dining experience for residents and visitors alike.

Located at the Quays in Bantry, the new permanent outdoor dining infrastructure consists of tables and seating of various sizes, parasols, planters and electric heaters. The dining area caters for customers of nearby restaurants, including The Quays, The Brick Oven and The Snug & O’D’s.

Known as the ‘Gateway to West Cork’, the market town of Bantry has gained a reputation for its strong food offering, with a vast range of restaurants, cafes and pubs to cater for all tastes and budgets. With the introduction of these permanent outdoor dining facilities, locals and tourists will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in Bantry's vibrant culinary scene while enjoying the picturesque surroundings of the town.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Danny Collins welcomed the completion of the project,

The food service industry is intrinsically linked to the economy, tourism and employment in Bantry. The addition of this magnificent outdoor dining area will not only support the local economy but will also contribute to enhancing the overall visitor experience. With capacity to accommodate 100 diners, this new dining space will enable restaurant-goers to dine outdoors beyond the summer season and encourage visitors to extend their stay in Bantry. I look forward to seeing the space being utilised to its full potential over the months and years to come.

 

Josephine ODriscoll, Manager Wild Atlantic Way, Fáilte Ireland, said, ‘It is fantastic to see Bantry’s outdoor dining infrastructure, which was funded by Fáilte Ireland’s Outdoor Dining Enhancement Scheme and developed in partnership with Cork County Council, being so well received by trade and visitors alike. Outdoor dining is now a permanent feature of our tourism and hospitality offering post-COVID, and facilities like these allow visitors to access outdoor dining options for longer periods of the year, supporting local businesses to sustainably develop and adding to the atmosphere in the town.’

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey added,

We are delighted to unveil the new permanent outdoor dining facilities in Bantry, which reflect our continuous efforts to create a vibrant and welcoming environment for residents and tourists. I would like to thank Fáilte Ireland for their support in bringing this project to fruition. These facilities not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the town but also provide a safe and enjoyable dining experience for all.