Clare County Council has confirmed the permanent partial pedestrianisation of O’Connell Street, Ennis, under Section 38 of the Roads Act following extensive public consultation.
From March 2, 2026, vehicular access will be permitted on O’Connell Street from 6am to 11am daily to facilitate business deliveries, drop offs and refuse collection. After 11am, the street will operate as a pedestrian-only zone until 6am the following morning.
The decision follows significant public engagement, including surveys and formal submissions as part of the Section 38 process.
The pedestrianisation aims to support a vibrant and attractive town centre, enhance the local environment, and provide greater support for businesses operating along the main thoroughfare.
Clare County Council Senior Engineer for Ennis MD Patrick Tiernan said, “This decision is grounded in extensive engagement with the public and local businesses through online and in-person surveys. We also considered submissions received during the Section 38 process. The majority of participants expressed support for pedestrianisation of some form, with more than half favouring full pedestrianisation and 90% supporting at least partial pedestrianisation.”
Mayor of Ennis Cllr Mary Howard said, “The partial pedestrianisation hails a new era and new opportunities for the town of Ennis. The pedestrianisation of O’Connell Street also builds on the Ennis Public Realm Works and the Ennis Streetscape Enhancement Scheme 2026. It forms part of Clare County Council’s broader commitment to positioning Ennis as an attractive place to live, work, visit, and socialise.”
Clare County Council Director of Service for Ennis Municipal District Jason Murphy said, “This partial pedestrianisation is designed to balance the operational needs of local businesses with the public’s call for improved pedestrian spaces. Our goal is to create a lively town centre, support the night-time economy, and open new opportunities for businesses along O’Connell Street and the wider town centre.”