Members of the Cork Masons Historical Society in Ireland marched in May to protest about the proposed replacement of natural local stone in Cork’s historic quay walls with concrete and the use of imported stone for paving.

They said they wanted to “stop the destruction of walls built by our forefathers and a link with our heritage”.

There are not a lot of members of the Cork Masons Historical Society but they sought support for their cause by marching with their placards through the town to the offices of consultants Arup, who they blame for the proposed development.

The plan is to put concrete on top of historic limestone and to use imported stone paving slabs. “We would like to see native stone used in all construction regarding our historic streetscape and the use of local tradespeople.”

They said they had received support for their cause from far and near and thanked those who turned out to encourage their march, especially those from the Green Party.

“Keep the pressure on our local representatives to question the tendering process before they vote for our city to become a concrete jungle,” they said.