Clare County Council has officially announced plans to introduce permanent partial pedestrianisation on O'Connell Street in Ennis, with the new measures set to take effect on Monday, 2nd March 2026.

The decision follows extensive public consultation, including a survey of nearly 1,500 people where approximately 90% of respondents supported pedestrian-friendly measures. A targeted door-to-door survey of local businesses also revealed that 80% were in favour of permanent pedestrianisation.

The move is designed to create a more attractive town centre, support the local night-time economy, and enhance the environment for shoppers, residents, and visitors. It builds upon recent infrastructure improvements, including the Ennis Public Realm Works and the upcoming Ennis Streetscape Enhancement Scheme 2026.

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Under the new operational plan:

• 6:00 am – 11:00 am: Vehicular access is permitted to facilitate business deliveries and refuse collection.

• 11:00 am – 6:00 am: O'Connell Street will be reserved exclusively for pedestrians.

Clare County Council Director of Service for Ennis Municipal District, Jason Murphy, said: "The Council believes this arrangement will strike a balance between the operational needs of businesses and the desire for a more pedestrian-friendly environment. Our vision is to foster a vibrant town centre, support the night time economy and open new opportunities for local businesses."

Acting Senior Engineer for Ennis MD, Patrick Tiernan, added: "The proposed partial pedestrianisation of O'Connell Street was informed by substantial engagement with the public and businesses. A recent door-to-door survey of businesses in Ennis demonstrated overwhelming support for the initiative, with 80% of respondents in favour of some form of permanent pedestrianisation. Notably, over half of public survey respondents advocated for full pedestrianisation of O'Connell Street, with 90% of respondents supporting some form of pedestrianisation."

The Council is now publishing the formal proposal under Section 38 of the Roads Act, inviting final submissions from the public.

Final submissions or observations can be sent via email to [email protected] or in writing to the Roads and Transportation Department at Áras Contae an Chláir, Ennis, before 4:00 pm on Friday, 13th February 2026.