Changes have resulted in reduced flow of motor traffic
PEDESTRIANISED streets, wider footpaths and new traffic layouts have Catherine Street and Thomas Street traders feeling the pinch, according to one shopowner.
Thomas Street, said the trader, who did not wish to be identified, had more or less become a no-go area for motorists, with only a handful of parking spaces available.
Neighbours in Catherine Street, it was claimed, were in a similar situation since footpaths were widened, leaving just space for one line of traffic, and again, limited parking.
“The footpaths are lovely and wide, but you wouldn’t get the likes of them in New York”.
It was also pointed out to the Limerick Post that the nearest right turn from William Street into the aforementioned streets, was via the turn off to Upper Gerald Griffin Street.
“Pedestrianisation has been welcomed, I suppose, by the majority of people in Limerick, and I must admit the city looks well, but the downturn in turnover which businesses in the area have suffered, should be reflected in reduced rates and water charges.
“No concessions have been made. Overheads are at an all-time high and we should be given a little more encouragement.
“Whether it is the economy, I don’t know, but there is very little footfall in the city at the moment. I would be more inclined to reason that people are opting for out-of-town shopping centres and retail parks because of the parking facilities available there. The cost of private parking in the city is extremely high”.
“I appeal to those in high office at City Hall to take a walk through town any time of day, and they will have a better understanding of the problems faced by traders”.
Owner-occupiers, the trader continued, were in a stronger position than tenants in that their overheads were less, ”rents are high in the city centre, and again, no allowances are made to compensate for the downturn”.
Another issue, it was claimed, was lack of toilet facilities.
“There is one outside Dunnes in Harvey’s Quay and another at the Peoples Park, but no more. We could also do with a nice picnic area.
“Also, residents in Catherine Street and Thomas Street have parking permits, but are left with few places to park”.
The traders asked City Council to take up Toy Connolly’s idea to demolish some of the buildings already acquired for the Opera Centre, and to create an open air car park, at reduced fees. “That would at least be a start to bring more people into town. Something has to be done, otherwise we could witness more shop closures, and loss of income for the city finance officer through rates”.
