There are growing calls from within the business community in Ennis for the immediate lifting of the temporary pedestrianisation measures in the town centres, with opponents saying that the ongoing road closures are paralysing business.
The measures were introduced as part of the Ennis Mobility Plan, which has been implemented in light of the need for social distancing as a result of COVID-19.
The Ennis Mobility Plan came into force four months ago as an emergency measure amid the covid-19 pandemic.
At the time, a survey of local businesses showed a majority supported these temporary pedestrianisation measures.
But now, there is growing frustration amongst some traders and Councillors over the impact of the restrictions
As it stands, the six-day-a-week road closures are poised to remain in place in the town centre until next May, though Council officials have committed to reviewing this over the coming weeks.
Ennis Fine Gael Councillor Johnny Flynn is among those calling for re-opening of Abbey Street and Bank Place to traffic, but some say that doesn’t go far enough.
John O’Connor of Custy’s Music Shop off O’Connell Street says their sales are down by up to 80%, and is blaming this on the measures introduced in Ennis.
A Former Mayor of Clare who says she was initially against the idea of lifting restrictions, is among those who also argue that they need to be reviewed.
Fianna Fáil Councillor Clare Colleran Molloy says the voice of all businesses must be heard, and says the measures can be lifted as Ireland continues to live with COVID-19
Ennis Councillor Mary Howard says the Ennis Town Centre Mobility Plan has the protection of Ennis residents, workers and businesses at its core.
The Fine Gael Councillor has acknowledged the concerns of local businesses, but she says she’s fully supportive of initiatives that keep citizens safe.
Clare County Council has today re-iterated that the Mobility Plan for Ennis was introduced to safeguard health, and has stressed that government advice remains that 2 metre physical distancing is followed by all people.
The local authority adds that it’s committed to engaging with all stakeholders with regard to implementation of the Plan.
Statement From Clare County Council
The Temporary Covid-19 Town Centre Mobility Plan for Ennis has been put in place in order to safeguard public health and to enable people to access Ennis Town Centre in a safe way.
Government advice is that physical distancing should continue to be maintained at all times and people are advised to distance themselves at least 2 metres away from other people. It is in this context, and having regard to the narrow streetscapes and interconnected laneways of Ennis Town Centre, that the Temporary Covid-19 Town Centre Mobility Plan has been put in place.
Clare County Council is committed to engaging with all stakeholders with regard to implementation of the Plan.
The Council, in consultation with a stakeholder group comprising representatives from businesses, the community and the wider public sector, continues to review the operation of the various elements of the Plan in line with Government guidelines around social distancing.
Feedback and enquiries about the Plan are welcome at: [email protected]
