Tralee Mayor: open spaces can help business
MAYOR of Tralee Cllr Jim Finucane is calling for public spaces to be used to help struggling café, restaurant and bar owners as they look to salvage what they can from the tourist season.
The Mayor identified the Mall and the Square in Tralee as possible venues that could accommodate extra tables and chairs, as well as a marquee that would ‘create an ambiance’.
It would only apply to existing ratepayers in the town centre and those who have their own insurance.
Owners of smaller premises are said to be in favour of the move as social distancing requirements will have a devastating impact on their ability to provide tables and chairs. It’s understood that Kerry County Council (KCC) are currently carrying out a ‘needs analysis’ with local businesses.
“The details are being ironed out as we speak but the principles are that the council would offer spaces that people would apply for. This is not about bringing other businesses in, it’s for existing rate payers only,” Mayor Finucane said.
He added that businesses would then be assigned a space in either the Mall or the Square to provide their own insurance and a free-standing canopy.
“The council could help businesses with the design and seating. You could also provide some entertainment in the Square to create an ambiance. Every business at the moment, particularly in the hospitality sector, is trying to come to a decision to reopen. It’s a significant one, and businesses are asking ‘is it worth it?’ This should be part of a drive to get as many home-holiday-makers as possible to visit Kerry. Kerry should be at the forefront of this market,” he added.
Mayor Finucane explained that businesses on the outskirts of Tralee, who may have a parking area, could also accommodate customers by erecting a canopy area in which to trade.
“If this model is streamlined, and without too much bureaucracy, it can be done successfully in any town in the county. You’re simply allowing businesses to maximise whatever space they have.
“This is an extraordinary time and we have to deal with it in an innovate manner,” Mayor Finucane said.