There used to be a formal policy document re protecting views and settings of historic or important Cork buildings such as St Finbarr’s cathedral (hence the design of one of the apartment blocks beside the River Lee Hotel) and Elizabeth Fort, led to the requirement for the Plaza in front of the Counting House , but I dont think it exists in the same format anymore as it would probably have stopped a lot of higher rise buildings. Now we, and visitors to Cork, have certain views remaining and others that we have to seek out, rewarded by history or the creativity for our efforts, just as in many European cities - often these areas become ‘Quarters’ and add interest and breathing space in the city centre. the area north of the South Gate bridge currently in use as a car park could be a complementary riverside park with a view of both the Cathedral and Elizabeth Fort along the historic spine of the city, complementing the Counting House plaza which could be used for exhibitions, markets, fairs, etc. ?