Project ACT

Description

Project ACT is being run across Cork County Council’s eight Municipal Districts with the support of Elected Members. The Project saw the creation of multi-sectoral teams with a targeted focus on rebuilding the economy and community life in each area. OPC representatives were central to each of theses committees (23 in total) to serve as the voice of the older person in re-opening society after the first COVID-19 lockdown. Project ACT recognised the significant impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic had on older people in particular. Some of the immediate actions taken by Project ACT were: A deep clean of the main retail and pedestrian areas Decluttering and fixing street furniture Replanting of trees and flowerbeds Additional road/pavement markings Measures to improve public space utilisation for pedestrians and business Results delivered included age friendly seating, age friendly parking and enhanced public realm for older people in particular.

Aim of Initiative

Businesses, Community and Voluntary Groups, Older and Vulnerable people, mobility impaired people. A cross section of society across our towns and communities

Who is it aimed at

Businesses, Community and Voluntary Groups, Older and Vulnerable people, mobility impaired people. A cross section of society across our towns and communities

Steps critical to success

1. Consultation
2. Collaborative Planning
3. Walk-abouts

Challenges in Planning / Delivery

1. Streetscape Limitations in some towns (narrow, hilly etc.)
2. Reaching consensus across such a broad range of stakeholders
3. Implementing Plans in a pandemic

Outcomes / Benefits

1. Better quality open space, amenity space
2. Greater awaremess of needs of older people
3. Greater awareness of mobility, acessibility issues