Clare County Council has expressed confidence that the pedestrianisation of Ennis can boost commercial activity in the town.
That’s despite concern from some traders that pedestrianisation, coupled with a shortage of parking, is hurting their trade.
The Temporary Covid-19 Town Centre Mobility Plan was introduced in Ennis in mid-May, in response to the need for social distancing.
Its proposal to essentially pedestrianise much of the town centre had previously been supported in a survey of local traders, but it continues to be met with opposition by some.
This week, Clare FM has been contacted by a number of shoppers and business people who are of the view that the current situation is not working.
Responding to a series of concerns posed to it by Clare FM, Clare County Council has said it’s confident the pedestrianisation plan can boost commercial activity by attracting people to shop in Ennis Town, which will support jobs and livelihoods and make the town a safe and attractive place to visit.
In relation to other concerns, the local authority has also confirmed that more directional signage will be in place in the coming weeks, and that funding has been approved by the NTA for retractable bollards, which will be permanent installations.
The taskforce responsible for administering and overseeing the plan is also engaging with other stakeholders on issues including the provision of more parking in the town, while pedestrianisation is likely to remain in place for some time as the Council says it will be needed so long as some form of social distancing is required under Government guidelines.
