Dublin City Centre Traders Alliance say retail to be hit as Dublin ‘car ban’ kicks in [Video]

A controversial new ‘car ban’ transport plan for the capital which restricts vehicles in certain parts of the city centre came into force yesterday, writes Sarah Slater.

There had been calls to delay the proposal’s implementation, as well as for greater consultation and sweeping changes.

The plan was developed by Dublin City Council (DCC) and the National Transport Authority (NTA).

The aim is for a ‘low-traffic city centre’, creating more space for public transport, cycling and walking.

Cars and delivery vans on the north quays can no longer travel from Bachelors Walk to Eden Quay and must now turn left up O’Connell Street.

On the south quays, they cannot drive from Burgh Quay to Aston Quay.

They can turn right onto O’Connell Street or left onto D’Olier Street, with left turns from Westmoreland Street to Aston Quay also banned.

Private cars will not be permitted – only buses, taxis, cyclists and pedestrians.

Although it is being …