The pedestrianisation of the area around Grafton Street in Dublin is the right move at the right time, according to an inner-city councillor.
Five streets in the area have gone car-free this weekend for the first of four trials.
The move has allowed businesses to expand outwards with tables and chairs set up on the streets and white fences preventing cars from getting in the way.
#StreetsAreForPeople crew enjoying the pre-thunderstorm vibes of S William St pic.twitter.com/zD9gwi6Oui
— Janet Horner (@JanetPHorner) July 25, 2020
Janet Horner, Green Party Councillor for the North Inner City said it is an “obvious move” for the city centre.
“It is something businesses want – we’re very hopeful it will help support improved footfall,” she said.
“It is something the people want. It is good for the environment; it is good for the air quality and it has been in the Dublin Development Plan since 2016 as well.
“So, I think there are multiple reasons why this is a good move and good time to do it as well.”
#StreetsAreForPeople crew enjoying the pre-thunderstorm vibes of S William St pic.twitter.com/zD9gwi6Oui
— Janet Horner (@JanetPHorner) July 25, 2020
She said the first day of the trial was “very successful” even if there are still “a few tweaks and a few changes” needed for next weekend.
“It was really nice to see some life brought back to certain streets in Dublin that have been a little bit quiet in recent months,” she said.
“Certainly, along Drury Street and South Anne Street in particular the council put out seating outdoors and people were able to relax and enjoy a coffee and take in some of the atmosphere in town – which is something we haven’t really had a chance to do since before the pandemic times.”
Dublin City Council is asking people to come into town and see for themselves before providing feedback through an online survey.
