They thought it was all over…
On Monday evening, Dublin City Council released the startling news the pedestrianised zones we’ve all been enjoying for outdoor dining and drinking would be no more.
Then, as with many announcements, Twitter did its thing…
Over the last 11 weeks, more than 300,000 people have experienced the traffic-free streets of Capel St & Parliament St. This weekend is the final scheduled weekend so be sure to check it out! #Dublin #CityRecovery #Pedestrianisation pic.twitter.com/SxRtCYXr2E
— Dublin City Council (@DubCityCouncil) August 23, 2021
The traffic-free zones initiative was first introduced to tackle the initial ruling that only allowed guests to be served outdoors when drinking and dining. It has lasted for 11 weeks and counting, and has largely been viewed as a resounding success, with over 300,000 people taking advantage.
Following the announcement, the post was met with an online backlash, with many feeling that the scheme was working well and reducing the amount of pollution around the streets.
Why are you giving this street back to cars 24/7? This isn't #cityrecovery. It's the city being choked by exhaust fumes, people crammed onto pavements, businesses just starting to bounce back having all that custom taken away. All just to placate drivers.
— the Weirdwolf (@Wonder_Jonboy) August 23, 2021
Since then, it has been revealed that the show will go on! Dublin City Council are set to extend the scheme until September 26. By that time, it’ll be getting a little chilly, but many will be relishing the extension by another month.
Dublin City Council extends Capel St / Parliament Street traffic-free trial.
Follows backlash to their tweet last night which said next weekend would be the last of the trial period.
Now runs until Sept 26 pic.twitter.com/13fuhKXqaV
— Richard Chambers (@newschambers) August 24, 2021
So, until September 26, you better believe we’ll all be enjoying the outdoor dining scheme as much as we can.