A Waterford councillor has called for the unfinished Ferrybank Shopping Centre to play a role in addressing long-standing shortages in local services. Fianna Fáil Councillor Eamon Quinlan raised the issue at the most recent Metropolitan District meeting of Waterford City and County Council. He said Ferrybank continues to lack basic amenities despite strong population growth in recent years.

Shopping Centre Seen as Key Opportunity

Councillor Quinlan said the shopping centre remains a major opportunity for the area. He urged Waterford Council to engage with Kilkenny County Council or the private owners of the site. Although Waterford Council has taken a judicial review against Kilkenny County Council over the development, Councillor Quinlan said that should not block future planning. He told the meeting that the centre will not disappear. He added that a fresh planning application could follow even if Waterford succeeds in the court case.

Shortage of Everyday Services

The councillor outlined a lack of essential services in Ferrybank. He said the area has only one small café and no sit-down restaurant. Fast-food outlets dominate the area. Ferrybank also has just one gym. The last pub in the area has planning permission for conversion to apartments. The old parish hall no longer operates as a community space. Ferrybank also lacks office accommodation. The area no longer has a hotel. Councillor Quinlan said the return of a single ATM recently highlighted how limited banking services remain for a population of around 6,000 people.

Suggestions for the Site

He suggested using parts of the shopping centre for offices, hospitality, or hotel accommodation. He said upper floors with views over Waterford City could support tourism and local employment. He stressed that the centre was designed during the Celtic Tiger era. Retail needs have changed since then, he said. Online shopping has reduced demand for large retail spaces. Mixed-use development now offers a better long-term option.

Council Response and Legal Limits

Council executives said they could not engage with Kilkenny County Council while the judicial review remains active. Councillor Quinlan responded by pointing out that the property owners operate separately from the local authority. Officials replied that the owners form an interested party in the case. They said the council would need legal advice before any contact.

Concerns Over Development Impact

Councillor Quinlan said Waterford Council has limited its own options. He questioned whether mediation took place before legal action began. He also highlighted the impact of the North Quays development. He said Ferrybank lost its only café during earlier works. Several businesses along Fountain Street have closed since construction began. While he welcomed the long-term potential of the North Quays, he said local services paid a heavy price during the process.

Growing Population Increases Pressure

Housing development has accelerated in Ferrybank in recent years. Population growth has intensified pressure on services. Councillor Quinlan said Ferrybank functions as the northern suburb of Waterford City. He said it needs amenities to match that role. For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.