An Cearnóg na gCrann Beag (The Small Crane) is one of Galway’s most historic public spaces. Originally a bustling potato market, it has long served as a social and cultural gathering point, a place to meet friends, enjoy music, or simply sit and watch the world go by.
Over time, the traditional stone floor and crane structure deteriorated, with patchwork repairs leaving the square in poor condition. Through funding from the Cairde Grant Scheme, the Galway’s westend Traders Association led a full regeneration of the site, aiming to restore its authenticity while enhancing its function as a shared community space.
The successful completion of The Cearnóg na gCrann Beag Project marks a momentous chapter in the story of Galway’s westend. What began as a long-held dream has now become a reality, a restored and reimagined public square that reflects both the area’s rich heritage and its vibrant present-day spirit.
A Short History of The Small Crane
Nestled in the heart of Galway’s Westend, the Small Crane has always been a place of gathering, trade, and cultural exchange. Once known as The Potato Market, it was where farmers sold their produce and neighbours met daily, forming the beating heart of the local community through the 18th and 19th centuries.
The square’s name evolved from the crane apparatus once used to weigh and move goods. Even as its commercial life waned, the spirit of connection remained. In the late 20th century, the Small Crane became synonymous with The Crane Bar, a cornerstone of traditional Irish music. The square, filled with the sound of tunes and conversation, continued to serve as a hub of Galway’s social life.
As the city grew and the Westend flourished with independent restaurants and cafés, the Small Crane remained at its centre — a space of continuity and community.
The Restoration of 2025
The 2025 restoration returned the Small Crane to its original charm while adapting it for modern use. Led by Galway’s Westend Traders Association and funded by the Cairde Grant Scheme, the project used authentic materials, craftsmanship, and design principles to honour the site’s heritage.
At its heart, the reinstated crane and scales were reimagined as public seating — transforming tools of trade into symbols of rest and reflection. The project was proudly delivered by Des Leahy Engineering, Martin Crosbie, Paul Murphy and team, and Galway City Council’s Benny Derrane, with leadership and coordination by Lisa Regan, whose vision and grant application brought the project to life.
The Small Crane Today – 2026
Today, the Small Crane stands renewed — a timeless meeting place where Galway’s past and present come together. The restored stonework and reinstated crane are both heritage markers and living parts of the city’s cultural landscape.
By day, locals and visitors gather for coffee, conversation, and connection. By night, the square comes alive with the sound of music from The Crane Bar and the buzz of Galway’s vibrant Westend dining scene.
The project has reaffirmed the Small Crane’s place at the heart of the community — a space where memory, music, and modern life converge.
Acknowledgements
This project would not have been possible without the dedication and collaboration of:
- Lisa Regan, Project Lead
- Galway’s Westend Traders Association
- Mike Scott Galway City Council
- Dilis and Laura
- Des Leahy Engineering
- Martin Crosbie, Stonemason
- Paul Murphy & his Team
- Benny Derrane and Frank McDonagh, Galway City Council
- Mick Crehan, The Crane Bar
- Andrew O’Halloran Galway City Council
- Ramberg Painters
