'Superblock' trial concerns from Limerick businesses 'should be treated seriously'

Several streets could be closed for the entirety of August to facilitate the activities. These streets would include Honan’s Quay, The Crescent, as well as lower Glentworth St. Picture: Dan Linehan

Businesses in Limerick have expressed reservations at plans to trial city streets as “ superblocks” to facilitate summer activities.

That's according to a survey from Limerick Chamber, which said the substantial concerns about the superblocks trial need to be taken seriously.

The city's directly elected mayor, John Moran, shared a programme of summer initiatives intended to transform the city through transport planning trials, cultural activation, and enhanced public spaces.

A wide area of Georgian Limerick is to be designated as a “superblock”, which means low-impact traffic measures will be introduced to prioritise local access while reducing through-traffic.

The initiative aims to test how more people-focused streets could support a “more vibrant and accessible” city centre by trialling Sunday-only transport planning throughout July and August.

According to the survey, 30% of business respondents expect a negative impact when it comes to the superblock trial, while 24% objected.

Another 45% were in favour, while 12% or respondents noted changes were required to the plans.

The survey took into account several key activation areas proposed for the August plans, with respondents in the Steamboat Quay, Lower Glentworth St, Back Lane, Honan’s Quay, and Nicholas St mostly supportive.

However, despite the support shown by some business owners, Limerick Chamber CEO has warned this should not be considered as unconditional support.

In a letter sent to Mr Moran, CEO Donnacha Hurley said: “In several cases, high levels of neutrality suggest that businesses are reserving judgement until they see greater detail on what will actually be delivered. 

"In other areas, particularly O’Connell St, The Crescent the level of concern is substantial and should be treated seriously."

'Well-executed plan'

For the August proposals to work, Mr Hurley said the council will need to provide a “well-executed plan” and demonstrate that the impact on existing businesses has been “properly understood”.

He said members recommended the need for a co-ordinated communications plan, emphasising one central point — that the city centre is “open for business”.

“Failure to do this will directly break trust with our member businesses,” Mr Hurley said.

The measures put forward by Mr Moran are designed to prioritise pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, as well as local access.

Mr Moran also announced an urban beach experience will be part of the summer activities and located at Steamboat Quay.

Several streets could be closed for the entirety of August to facilitate the activities. These streets would include Honan’s Quay, The Crescent, as well as lower Glentworth St.

During the road closures, diversions will be fully signposted. Pedestrians and emergency services will still have access.

Last year, Mr Moran faced backlash after announcing plans to close the Crescent area at the top of O’Connell St to facilitate summer activities.

After facing criticism from local traders, Mr Moran admitted the plans were not “good value for money”.