THE BEGRUDGERS

MUCH FOR THE DUBLIN BEGRUDGER TO MOAN ABOUT

Ah, the Dublin begrudger! A character as iconic as the Ha'penny Bridge itself, always ready with a complaint, even in the face of positive change. And it seems the newly revamped Liffey Street, with its striking hockey stick-shaped lights, is no exception to their scrutiny.

The Liffey Street upgrade, stretching from the Ha'penny Bridge to Henry Street, is a transformation to behold. The pedestrian zones have been expanded, a new plaza graces Liffey Street Lower, and the area is now adorned with increased greenery, wider footpaths, and of course, those distinctive hockey stick-shaped lights. These lights, a departure from the initially planned catenary system, have become a talking point, drawing both praise for their modern aesthetic and grumbles from the ever-present begrudgers.

Some bemoan the temporary access granted to cars exiting a nearby car park onto Lower Liffey Street. However, this is merely a transitional arrangement as Dublin City Council moves towards the ultimate goal of full pedestrianisation. Even the beloved "Hags with the Bags" sculpture, recently returned to its rightful place, hasn't escaped criticism, with some complaining about its positioning.

This blend of progress and complaint encapsulates the essence of Dublin. It's a city that embraces change while holding onto its traditions, where innovation and critique go hand in hand. The Liffey Street upgrade, with its modern lighting and pedestrian-friendly spaces, represents a step towards a more vibrant and accessible city centre. Yet, true to form, the Dublin begrudger is there to remind us that even in the face of improvement, there will always be something to find fault with.

Whether you admire the new lights, lament the temporary traffic arrangements, or simply enjoy observing the city's evolution, one thing is certain: the Liffey Street upgrade has sparked conversation and added another layer to the rich tapestry of Dublin life. And as the city continues to evolve, one can only imagine what the begrudgers will find to complain about next!