A Waterford councillor has sharply criticised the design of bus shelters across the city, arguing that their current structure fails to protect passengers from the weather and undermines efforts to promote public transport.

The issue was raised at the most recent plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, where Labour Councillor Thomas Phelan expressed frustration with what he described as poorly conceived shelter designs.

Cllr Phelan said the shelters, many of which feature open sides, leave commuters fully exposed to wind and rain. He suggested the structures appear to have been “designed by someone who has never had to wait for a bus,” adding that such shortcomings do little to encourage people to choose buses over private cars.

The councillor also questioned the procurement process behind the shelters, calling for a review to ensure future installations better meet the needs of passengers.

The discussion forms part of a broader debate on improving public transport infrastructure across Waterford, with councillors highlighting the importance of reliable, comfortable facilities in boosting ridership.

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