Traders are split on Main St. traffic ban

November 1985

Pedestrianisation was just introduced to Wexford town’s Main Street last Friday but already a number of Main Street traders have expressed concern at the move. One businessman said the numbers in his shop were down 25 per cent last Friday, while business on Saturday morning was ‘disastrous’.

Other traders said this week that ‘certain problems’ have to be ironed out before they can pass judgement on the scheme. Loading, unloading, and deliveries have been causing problems, and talks with Wexford Corporation are expected.

But Town Clerk, Don Curtin, has repeated that the traffic ban is here to stay. He said he would talk to any traders in difficulty, but problems will have to be resolved without interfering with pedestrianisation.

‘ There is no question that it will be done away with,’ he said.

Mr Curtin said that his impression was that reaction to the scheme was very positive, especially from shoppers. But his view was not shared by North Main Street chemist, John Sherwood.

‘Business was definitely down,’ he said. ‘ The numbers on Friday were down 25 per cent, and Saturday morning was disastrous. It improved just a bit on Saturday afternoon,’ he added.

‘It is early days yet to condemn it totally,’ he went on. ‘I will give it a chance for a few weeks, but the omens are not good. If my business continues to drop, I’ll be making approaches to the relevant authorities.’