THE LAST WORD
By Pat Coughlan
Pedestrianisation, the act of converting streets for the exclusive use of pedestrians, is a hot topic in urban planning. It promises cleaner air, safer streets, and a boost for local businesses. But, like a double-edged sword, it can also disrupt traffic and accessibility.
So, is it a blessing or a curse for Kilkenny’s High Street?
High Street in Kilkenny is a bustling hub, where cars, buses, Bikes, Pedestrians and the odd tractor jostle for space. Footpaths are crowded, with locals and tourists navigating the narrow walkways. Two bicycle lanes are seldom used by cyclists. Businesses range from quaint family-owned shops to trendy cafes, vying for attention.
Recently, to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety, High Street became a one-way system. This change has sparked mixed reactions. Many appreciate the reduced congestion and smoother vehicle flow. The update has allowed for wider footpaths and additional street furniture, benefiting pedestrians. I cannot understand why cyclists have two-way access with their own lanes going both ways. It seems to me like pandering to both the motoring public and the green lobby.
Some locals argue that the one-way system rerouted traffic to neighbouring streets, causing congestion and lengthening travel times. Despite concerns, city planners argue that the benefits, including improved safety and business accessibility, outweigh the negatives. The full impact is still being evaluated, but it represents a significant shift in one of Kilkenny’s busiest thoroughfares.
Imagine High Street without the constant hum of engines. Cleaner air, for starters. Who wouldn’t want to breathe easier? Then there’s the boost for local businesses. More foot traffic means more customers. And let’s not forget safety. Fewer cars mean fewer accidents. It’s a win-win, really.
Ah, but what about the traffic, you ask? Imagine the chaos of rerouted cars clogging up the side streets. And what of our elderly and disabled neighbours? They might find it harder to access their favourite shops. Some businesses, especially those relying on quick stops, could see a dip in customers.
Looking at other cities gives us some perspective on pedestrianisation. Take Dublin’s Grafton Street, for example; it’s a bustling hub now, with cafes and shops thriving thanks to foot traffic. On the flip side, Newry in Northern Ireland tried to pedestrianise its central street but had to revert due to traffic congestion issues. Another notable example is Cork’s Oliver Plunkett Street, which has seen a resurgence in local businesses and increased tourism since its pedestrianisation. Similarly, Galway’s Shop Street has become a vibrant area attracting both locals and tourists for its lively atmosphere and numerous street performers.
Then there’s Copenhagen’s Strøget, which is hailed as a pioneering success in creating a lively and safe environment. These examples show that while pedestrianisation can bring vitality to an area, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Living in Kilkenny, I realise how crucial quick hospital access is. St Luke’s General Hospital and Aut Even Hospital are both outside the ring road, making High Street an essential route for many. Pedestrianising High Street could complicate things for those needing swift medical attention.
I’ve often thought about the elderly and those with limited mobility. Imagine an emergency requiring detours around a pedestrianised High Street — this could be a serious health risk.
Some suggest alternative routes or better public transport might help, but implementing those changes seamlessly isn’t guaranteed. I’ve seen towns promise better transport with pedestrianisation, only to fall short. We must balance a pedestrian-friendly High Street with the urgent needs for quick hospital access. The stakes are too high for mistakes.
After considering the pros and cons of pedestrianising High Street in Kilkenny, it’s clear that both sides present compelling arguments. On one hand, pedestrianisation could breathe new life into the area, offering a safer, more vibrant space for locals and visitors alike. On the other hand, we can’t ignore the potential disruption to traffic and access to essential services. My recommendation would be to trial pedestrianisation during weekends or special events first. This way, we can gauge the impact and make more informed, balanced decisions moving forward.
