A Waterford councillor raised concerns about pedestrian safety at the Clock Tower plaza at a recent Metropolitan District meeting, warning that keeping the area closed is creating dangerous conditions for people in the city centre.
Social Democrats councillor Mary Roche raised the issue at the December meeting of Waterford City and County Council, saying the closed plaza beside the Clock Tower forces pedestrians onto busy roadways.
She said the situation already places vulnerable road users at unnecessary risk, particularly visitors and children unfamiliar with the area.
Councillor Roche described witnessing groups of young people walking along the roadway outside the Clock Tower due to the lack of safe pedestrian access.
Adding that the council must prioritise public safety and open access behind the Clock Tower as soon as possible, even on a temporary basis, to prevent accidents.
Responding to the concerns, Director of Services Michael Quinn said the plaza is nearing completion and will open in the first quarter of 2026.
Mr Quinn said the council will open the plaza separately once it completes the final elements, while work continues on the wider South Quays project.
Waterford City and County Council has described works along the South Quays as well advanced, with access between the plaza and the sustainable transport bridge remaining restricted until the bridge opens.
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