Cross Street Rejuvenation Project

Scheme Overview

An artist’s impression of Middle Street following the completion of these works.

Galway City Council is proposing a public realm improvement project for Cross Street and the surrounding laneways within Galway City Centre. The Cross Street Rejuvenation Project will enhance the streets and public spaces along Cross Street, Middle Street, Abbeygate Street Lower, Buttermilk Lane and Buttermilk Walk.

These streets form part of Galway’s historic medieval core and are located within the city’s Architectural Conservation Area. The area is well known for its vibrant character, local businesses, cultural activity and its strong connection to the Latin Quarter and the wider city centre.

The purpose of the project is to improve the quality of the streetscape while respecting the historic character of the area. The proposals aim to create a safer, more attractive and more accessible environment for residents, businesses and visitors.

This project received planning consent in September 2026.  Construction works are expected to begin in  Mid-2028, following the completion of the detailed design works, and Galway City Council will liaise closely with the local community prior to and throughout the construction period to best accommodate business interests, particularly during peak periods, including events and festivals.

 

Why is this project needed?

Cross Street and the surrounding lanes are among the most visited streets in Galway city centre. However, parts of the public realm are currently dated and require improvement.

By upgrading the public realm, the project will help ensure that the area continues to thrive as a lively and welcoming part of the city centre.

The key objectives of the project are to:

  • Establish street profiles and rebalance the priority between vehicles and pedestrians.
  • Adjust traffic flows to suit the new use of these streets while accommodating existing access and delivery requirements.
  • Improve the connectivity of the streets to the surrounding context.
  • Enhance the existing heritage assets.
  • Establish a cohesive language for the streetscape, including materials and detailing.
  • Create a platform for thriving, functioning streets.
  • Ensure the scheme is maintainable and responds to today’s needs as well as those of the future.

Further information is available from the Statutory Consent Information Document.

An artist’s impression of Middle Street / Cross Street following the completion of these works.

 

An artist's impression of Middle Street / Cross Street following completion of the Cross Street Rejuvenation Project

 

An artist's impression of Cross Street following completion of the Cross Street Rejuvenation Project