Four Galway City streets revamp moves step closer ahead of council vote

One of the key talking points throughout the consultation has been the future of pedestrianisation in the area

Published 15th Aug 2026, 15:10 BST Cross Street | Google Maps One of the key talking points throughout the consultation has been the future of pedestrianisation in the area Sign up to our Connacht Tribune Today daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know you can manage your profile, and explore all of the available newsletters from Connacht Tribune within your account.

Plans to transform Cross Street in the city centre have moved a step closer after council planners backed the proposed rejuvenation project ahead of a final decision by councillors next month.

The planners' report, which follows a public consultation on the project, concludes that the scheme should go ahead without any major changes.

Councillors will consider the proposal at a briefing on September 1 before making a final decision at their meeting on September 7.

The project aims to upgrade Cross Street, Middle Street, Abbeygate Street Lower, Buttermilk Lane and Buttermilk Walk with new paving, improved lighting, seating, planting, cycle parking and drainage works to make the area more attractive, accessible and easier to navigate.

One of the key talking points throughout the consultation has been the future of pedestrianisation in the area.

While the plans include automated bollards that could allow streets to be closed to traffic at certain times or during festivals and events, planners say the project itself does not introduce any new pedestrianisation measures.

Read More WATCH: Galway Rose Jodie Kenny’s funny reason behind entering Rose of Tralee Best business advice Supermac’s owner Pat McDonagh ever received was only four words Popular Galway hairdressers closing after 20 years thanks 'heartbeat of business' customers Instead, it creates a flexible street layout that allows different traffic arrangements to be considered in the future if councillors decide to pursue them.

The plans highlight that Cross Street, Abbeygate Street and Middle Street could be pedestrianised, either in full or during certain periods.

The project also sets out how the streets could function under normal traffic conditions, during pedestrianised periods, and during festivals or market days.

Council officials say the scheme intends to shift the balance away from traffic toward pedestrians while improving safety, accessibility and the area's overall appearance.

Located in the heart of Galway's medieval centre and the Latin Quarter, the area is one of the city's busiest for businesses , tourism and cultural activity.

A total of 17 submissions were received during the public consultation process.

Many welcomed the proposed improvements to the city centre, while others raised concerns about disability access, parking, deliveries, cycling and the possible impact that any future pedestrianisation could have on residents , businesses and visitors.

The report concludes that the submissions received during the consultation "do not warrant any significant modification to the proposed Cross Street Rejuvenation Project."

Planners have recommended that the council proceed with the project, subject to detailed design and construction-stage mitigation measures.

Councillors are due to make a final decision on the project at their meeting on September 7.