Retailers in Waterford City Centre have expressed deep concern over what they describe as a deteriorating business environment, citing poor footfall, unaffordable rates, inadequate traffic planning, and a growing sense of insecurity due to limited Garda visibility.

The concerns were raised during a recent meeting organised by members of the Waterford City Centre Traders Group, held at the TRM store in the city. The meeting was attended by 12 local councillors and two TDs. It was followed by further discussion at the Metropolitan District Council meeting on April 24th.

Retailers painted a bleak picture of city centre trade, with local Councillor Joe Kelly describing the city as “dying on its feet.” Representatives from Kelly’s (shop) on the Quay highlighted high commercial rates and a dramatic decline in customer traffic as key issues affecting survival.

One of the concerns was the city’s traffic management. Traders and councillors voiced frustration over ongoing roadworks, complex one-way systems, and pedestrianised zones, which they claim are driving customers away.

Cllr. Joe Kelly branded the city’s traffic systems as “deplorable” and warned that a €12–15 million investment into the inner ring road, while welcome in the long term, would cause major disruptions in the short term. “It’s becoming more difficult for people to come into Waterford,” he said. “Shoppers are simply going elsewhere.”

A proposal from Frank Quinlan suggested reopening Arundel Square to traffic to revive the area, which has seen a drop in activity since pedestrianisation. Cllr. Kelly supported the idea, noting that the move would especially benefit elderly customers and those needing short-term access.

Parking and Rate Relief Proposed

Retailers also raised issues with the city’s parking system, calling it both limited and expensive. While Cllr. Joe Kelly disagreed with claims that Waterford’s parking is costly, insisting it is competitive—he acknowledged room for improvement.

Cllr. Eamon Quinlan proposed a parking solution: while the first two hours would be paid, the third hour could be free to encourage shoppers to linger and spend more. “It could increase retail activity significantly,” said Cllr. Kelly, who noted it could be incorporated into the council’s annual budget review.

A suggestion for rate reductions or temporary rate holidays was also discussed as a measure to ease pressure on struggling businesses.

Another major issue raised was the limited presence of Gardaí in the city. According to Cllr. Kelly, there are currently only two officers patrolling the city centre at any given time, which traders say has contributed to rising anti-social behaviour. Many also reported slow Garda response times to incidents.

Frustrations with Council and Active Travel Projects

Cllr. Kelly criticised Waterford Council and national decision-making structures, accusing them of ignoring local input, particularly about active travel projects such as new cycle lanes. He pointed to Section 38 of the Road Traffic Act 1994, which states, “A road authority may, in the interest of the safety and convenience of road users, provide such traffic calming measures as they consider desirable in respect of public roads in their charge”.

A planned cycle lane from Whitfield to The Mall was cited as an example of a project that could significantly worsen traffic conditions for two years during construction.

Cllr. Kelly also mentioned the collapse of the city’s night-time economy, noting that many shops are not open in the evenings due to low demand.

In Ferrybank, the recent closure of a Spar store was linked to broader commercial decline. While developments on the North Quays aim to revitalise the area, Cllr. Kelly questioned whether they would attract new residents or merely shift existing ones from elsewhere.

Another concern raised was the confirmation that a proposed electric bus service—designed to connect Ferrybank with the city centre via a sustainable transport bridge—will not go ahead. The council cited economic viability, licensing issues, and National Transport Authority (NTA) oversight as reasons for its cancellation.

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