Waterford City retail struggles came into sharp focus at City Hall this month, as councillors warned the city centre no longer meets the needs of modern shoppers.

Fianna Fáil councillor Jason Murphy raised the issue at the December Metropolitan District meeting of Waterford City and County Council. He said the city’s retail model remains outdated and fails to reflect how people now live and work.

“I think everyone will acknowledge that retail in our city centre is suffering,” Cllr Murphy told the meeting. Adding that Waterford still operates with a mindset that belongs to another era.

He argued that most households now rely on two incomes. As a result, many people cannot shop during traditional daytime hours. “People are working when the city is open,” he said. “When they finish work, the city is closed.”

Cllr Murphy said the problem exists all year, not just at Christmas. However, he said the festive season exposes the issue more clearly, when demand is high but access remains limited.

He described visiting the city centre on a weekday evening. He said only a small number of major retailers were open. “Outside of that, the town was dead,” he said.

Cllr Murphy called for a stronger focus on the evening economy. He said discussions should not centre solely on pubs and entertainment. “There’s more to the night-time economy,” he said. “It’s about having shops open.”

He also said the council must play a role in supporting change. He suggested incentives, including adjustments to commercial rates, could encourage later opening hours.

The debate followed the adoption of the council’s 2026 Budget. The €207 million spend includes a 3.5 per cent increase in commercial rates.

While councillors acknowledged the need for investment, concerns remain about the pressure on retailers.

Cllr Murphy warned that inaction will deepen Waterford City retail struggles and drive shoppers elsewhere. He said the city must adapt or risk falling further behind.

Executive Response

Responding to the discussion, Director of Services Michael Quinn said the council cannot solve the problem alone.

Mr Quinn said progress depends on strong cooperation with retailers.

He confirmed that improving the city’s retail offering remains a priority for 2026 and said the council has begun engagement with businesses and will continue that work in the months ahead.

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