Summer in the City is a new Limerick City and County Council pilot programme designed to bring more life, activity and vibrancy to Limerick city centre through events, enhanced public spaces and innovative traffic management initiatives.
This FAQ provides residents, businesses and visitors with key information on what to expect, how to get involved and where to find updates throughout the programme.
- General / Programme Overview
- Residents – Key Questions
- Businesses – Key Questions
- City Experience & Public Realm
- Planning, Governance & Impact
- Additional Useful / Anticipated Queries
General / Programme Overview
What is “Summer in the City”?
An initiative to bring more life, activity and vibrancy into Limerick city centre through events, improved public spaces and traffic management trials.
When is the programme taking place?
Superblock trials will take place on Sundays in July, with a full programme of events and activations throughout August.
What is the aim of the initiative?
To create a more people-focused city centre that supports living, working, visiting and socialising.
Who is organising the programme?
Limerick City and County Council in collaboration with local businesses, community groups and stakeholders.
Is this a once-off or will it continue?
This is a pilot programme designed to test ideas that may inform longer-term city centre planning.
Residents – Key Questions
Will road closures affect access to my home?
Local access will be maintained, with traffic management plans in place to minimise disruption.
Will emergency services still have access?
Yes, emergency access will be maintained at all times.
Will there be noise from events?
Some events will generate additional activity, but all programming will be managed within appropriate guidelines.
What times will events run until?
There will be daytime, evening and some late openings (especially for Night-Time Economy activations), with clear finishes each evening.
Will there be parking disruptions?
Yes, some on-street parking may be temporarily unavailable in activation areas, with alternative arrangements signposted.
Will public transport be impacted?
Temporary diversions may be required; updates will be provided in advance.
What are Superblock trials?
Traffic calming measures that restrict through-traffic while prioritising pedestrians, cyclists and local access.
Why are Superblocks being trialled?
To test safer, more accessible city centre layouts focused on people rather than vehicles.
Will there be additional safety measures in place?
Yes, including traffic management, stewarding and coordination with emergency services.
How can I give feedback?
Residents will be invited to share feedback through Council channels and consultations.
Businesses – Key Questions
Will my business remain open during the programme?
Yes, all businesses will continue to operate as normal.
Will footfall increase or decrease?
The programme is designed to increase footfall and dwell time in the city centre.
Can my business participate in the events?
Yes, businesses are encouraged to engage through promotions, outdoor offerings and collaborations.
Will deliveries be affected?
Delivery windows and access routes will be agreed in advance to minimise disruption.
Will outdoor trading or seating be permitted?
Opportunities for extended outdoor use will be supported where possible.
How do I apply to be involved in activations?
Through open calls, community grant schemes and direct engagement with the Council.
Is there financial support for businesses?
There will be a community grant call and Mayoral stipend to support activities and participation.
What kind of events are planned?
Street theatre, sports showcases, family entertainment and cultural activations.
Will signage and wayfinding be provided?
Yes, to support navigation and highlight open businesses.
Who do I contact with concerns as a trader?
A dedicated Council contact point will be provided for business queries.
City Experience & Public Realm
What changes will be visible in the city?
Temporary pedestrianisation, seating areas, greening and enhanced public spaces.
What is meant by “greening”?
The addition of trees, plants, and landscaping to improve the look and feel of the city centre.
What is the “urban beach”?
A temporary installation at Steamboat Quay featuring seating, leisure space and attractions.
Will the programme be family-friendly?
Yes, a strong focus is placed on inclusive, family-friendly activities.
Will there be evening and night-time events?
Yes, including music, performances and cultural activities.
Are the events free?
Many events will be free, with some ticketed experiences possible.
Planning, Governance & Impact
How is the programme funded?
Through a Council budget allocation, including a Mayoral fund for programming.
How are decisions made about road closures?
Through formal planning, lead times and coordination with relevant stakeholders.
Will this impact future city planning?
Yes, insights from the pilot will inform long-term transport and public realm strategies.
How does this align with the City Centre Transport Plan?
It supports the goal of creating a city where people want to live, work and socialise.
How are safety and risk managed?
Through event management planning, risk assessments and regulatory compliance.
Additional Useful / Anticipated Queries
Will waste management and cleaning be increased?
Yes, additional services will be deployed during the programme.
Will accessibility be considered?
Yes, universal access and inclusive design are key priorities
What happens if weather disrupts events?
Contingency planning will be in place where possible.
Where can I find updates and schedules?
On Limerick.ie and official Council social media channels.