Dun Laoghaire's "Living Streets" programme to pedestrianise parts of the town adjoining the harbour moved a step closer following a marathon council meeting.
As RTÉ and The Irish Times report, councillors voted in favour of the Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council "Living Streets" scheme shortly before 2 am on Tuesday.
A number of amendments to the plan include the requirement that it be subject to “an independent review of traffic levels, economic, environmental and other metrics.”
The plan, including traffic restrictions and pedestrian zones, must also be monitored by the council’s Dún Laoghaire area committee, the chamber agreed.
The scheme was approved by 30 votes to seven votes against.
The plan would implement “modal filters” at Tivoli Road, Cross Avenue and Clarinda Park West to deter vehicular traffic, while parts of George’s Street Lower, Sussex Street and Convent Road would be pedestrianised.
Council officials said the plan would create a safer walking environment through reduced traffic.
They said footpaths would be widened and there would be more facilities for cyclists, more seating and more tree planting.
Local businesses are reported to be divided over the plan, due to the potential economic impact.