Mayor John Moran does a U-turn on decision to close major Limerick street

IN A SHARP U-turn decision, the mayor of Limerick has scrapped plans to close The Crescent area at the top of O’Connell St, for the month of August.

The controversial proposal by John Moran had been part of the city’s ‘August Animations’ festival, aimed at transforming urban spaces into hubs for culture and community activity.

The decision marks a significant shift just weeks before the festival’s launch and comes amid concerns from local businesses over potential disruptions.

Last year, many city traders criticised the initiative, claiming it led to a noticeable drop in footfall and sales during the summer period.

Despite the concerns, in June, Mayor Moran announced that the section of road would close for the second year in-a-row. However, he now has done a dramatic U-turn and cancelled those plans for the closure of streets around the Daniel O’Connell monument. The closed-off area had played host to sand and what locals called a ‘fake beach’ in the past where people could sit and relax and play games.

This Monday in response to a query from Limerick Live, Limerick City and County Council (LCCC) confirmed the decision.

“Limerick City and County Council is planning activities and animations for the city during the month of August. Some of these activities may necessitate closures at Honan’s Quay, John’s Square and Baker Place.

“It is not envisaged that any other streets or roads will be closed as part of these planned activities,” they added, with no mention of The Crescent closure in the latest statement.

The road closures are all part of Mayor John Moran’s plan for traditional gathering spots in the city to once again be reclaimed by the people.

Back in June, Mayor Moran said: “Building on the success of August 2024, we want to bring our city and county to life again this summer. I’ve always believed that when we open up our public spaces, people respond, and last year proved it. Thanks to the incredible support from Limerick City and County Council, we’re doing it again, even bigger and better.”

The festival is set to proceed with pop-up events across the city, but The Crescent will stay open to traffic.

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Mayor John Moran does a U-turn on decision to close major Limerick street

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