Unique street cafe area could be ‘game changer’

Unique street cafe area could be ‘game changer’

14 April 2021

A DEDICATED area for people to sit and have a coffee and a chat outside could be developed in Downpatrick town centre to help businesses recover from the devastating impact of Covid.

South Down MP Chris Hazzard has asked the Department for Infrastructure and Newry, Mourne and Down Council to join forces to deliver so-called parklets and pavement cafes in the town.

Parklets — which are popular across Europe and in the United States — provide space for people to stop, sit and rest, with Mr Hazzard recently discussing the provision of one in Downpatrick with members of the business community.

He was joined at the meeting with local councillors Oonagh Hanlon and Cathy Mason and believes the concept would be a “game changer” in Downpatrick’s ability to recover quickly from Covid restrictions. 

The MP said that over the past year, those in the hospitality sector in Downpatrick have “suffered immensely” as a result of the necessary Covid-19 restrictions.

“As we prepare to reopen in the weeks ahead, these particular businesses are extremely keen to maximise the opportunity for outdoor seating and socialising,” Mr Hazzard continued.

“Speaking with local business representatives last week, we identified the Ormeau Road parklet scheme in Belfast as a great example of what can be achieved when statutory and civic partners work collaboratively to trial new ideas in navigating our way out of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“Traders in Downpatrick would be very interested in doing something similar in the town’s on-street parking areas and work in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down Council to explore the possibility of transforming the off-street pavement and parking areas into pavement cafes.”

Mr Hazzard believes that as an ancient city, Downpatrick’s beautiful buildings and thoroughfares are a significant visitor attraction.

But he said this architectural heritage can make physical distancing quite arduous and creates difficult decisions for town centre business owners about whether to open or not when the restrictions allow. 

“A range of parklet style initiatives in the town centre would be a fantastic opportunity to ensure social distancing, while being able to support local businesses,” said the MP.

“I have no doubt that transforming our public space in such a manner, including new cycle parking, would encourage more people to get out and enjoy their local environment and support our local traders in doing so.”

Mr Hazzard said that given the need to “think imaginatively” as Covid restrictions ease, he hoped that the Department for Infrastructure and the local council can work with local businesses to launch an innovative and exciting project that can attract visitors and residents to enjoy the first class hospitality that Downpatrick has to offer.