Francis Street businesses demand change

Simon Johnston, Aine Killeen, Vinecnt Kelly and Michael Mortell. Photo: Piers Moyles

With the development project undertaken on Thomas Street, would the business people on Francis Street like to see a similar project in their area and if so what would they like to see improved?

Name: Simon Johnston

Simon Johnston
Photo: Piers Moyles

Business: Johnston Antiques

“I would certainly like to see new business move into the street because there are a few premises that are boarded up or shuttered up, so it’d be nice to just get more diversity on the street, which might help bring more people on the street.”

Name: Aine Killeen

Aine Killeen
Photo: Piers Moyles

Business: Oxfam Home

“There are a lot of empty buildings that are getting damaged so I’d like to see them used; maybe with more community initiatives and more of a community effort to use facilities.”

Name: Vincent Kelly

Vincent Kelly
Photo: Piers Moyles

Business: Gallery Zozimus

“Absolutely, we’d love to see something similar down in Francis Street; maybe trees planted to soften the street, widen the footpaths to stop the traffic from speeding down the street but with an emphasis put on not losing parking spaces for our clients.”

Name: Michael Mortell

Michael Mortell
Photo: Piers Moyles

Business: Michael Mortell

“The derelict buildings are a disgrace. All the graffiti should be taken off the walls and better street lighting. I also think there should be speed ramps put on the street. I’ve seen cars, especially police cars go down at a phenomenal speed.”