European coastal cities inspire redevelopment of strategic Limerick location
REDUCING the number of vehicles passing through a key area of the city centre could form part of major plans to revitalise the area.
Councillors have been briefed on the emerging Arthur’s Quay Framework Plan which is currently being drawn up.
Members of the Economic Development, Enterprise and Planning Strategic Policy Committee were told the vision is to revitalise the urban space by mirroring European coastal cities.
During her presentation, Denise Murray, an architect with Metropolitan Workshop, highlighted the patchwork nature of the various properties and landowners in-and-around Arthur’s Quay.
Notable landmarks, she said, include the Hunt Museum, Arthur’s Quay shopping centre and the former Dunnes Stores’ building, which is now owned by the University of Limerick.
Ms Murray told members around a third of the Arthur’s Quay area is currently used as a thoroughfare and concerns were raised that it is too car-centric.
The fragmented nature of the roads and infrastructure was also highlighted as being an issue as it hinders accessibility and the riverfront potential of the area.
Also suggested was the need for a more balanced approach between pedestrians and vehicles.
In their vision, planners want to utilise the area’s assets, directing public spaces towards scenic views, rather than building fronts.
The presentation drew inspiration from urban transformations in other cities.
Copenhagen's floating lido and small riverfront kiosks served as examples of how to create engaging and user-friendly urban areas.
Cllr Stephen Keary highlighted an issue which he said is impacting Limerick – the absence of a central shopping destination or focal point.
He proposed the demolition of the Arthur’s Quay shopping centre and the Revenue building, to be replaced with an open plaza and buildings that harmonise with the environment while Cllr Joe Pond raised concerns about traffic flow and how to divert the traffic from the area.
Cllr John Egan echoed these concerns, highlighting the need for convenient parking facilities.
Clrr Saša Novak Uí Chonchúir drew comparisons to Nerja, a Spanish coastal town, suggesting the quay could become a bustling destination akin to Balcon de Europa.
Extensive engagement and collaboration is continuing.