I LIKE THE NWE LIGHTS

THE ALMOST COMPLETED LIFFEY STREET UPGRADE 22 JULY 2024

It should be mentioned that the popular Meeting Place sculpture, affectionately known as the ‘Hags with the Bags’, was returned to the street last week.

The almost completed Liffey Street upgrade in Dublin city centre has transformed the area from the iconic Ha'penny Bridge along the full length of Liffey Street Lower and Upper to the junction with Henry Street. The pedestrian zone on Liffey Street Upper has been extended to Abbey Street, while a new pedestrian plaza now graces Liffey Street Lower between Strand Street and the quays. The plaza boasts increased greenery, wider footpaths repaved in granite, and a temporary arrangement allowing cars exiting a nearby car park to access a section of Lower Liffey Street.

The plaza's lighting, initially planned as a catenary system, now features five large, white, hockey stick-shaped metal standards. This striking design complements the colour and structure of the Ha'penny Bridge, providing both functional illumination and aesthetic appeal. The public has responded positively to the change, appreciating the modern aesthetic that complements the historic character of the area.

A catenary lighting system was initially planned for the Liffey Street Lower plaza near the Ha'penny Bridge, but it appears that Dublin City Council (DCC) opted for a different design during the project's implementation. The current lighting with five large, white, hockey stick-shaped metal standards, is a striking and fitting addition to the area. It complements the Ha'penny Bridge's iconic structure and colour scheme while providing ample illumination for the plaza.

Reason for the Change: DCC hasn't explicitly stated why they changed the lighting design, it's likely due to a combination of factors:

I was not happy about the traffic assess to part of Lower Liffey Street I investigated the issue in a bit more detail than I had intended: Cars exiting the car park on Middle Abbey Street can indeed access a section of Lower Liffey Street to reach Capel Street via Great Strand Street. However, this arrangement is not permanent. Dublin City Council's (DCC) plan for Liffey Street Lower is to eventually pedestrianise it entirely, aligning with their goal to create a more pedestrian-friendly city centre. The current arrangement allows for a transition period to minimise disruption to businesses and traffic flow.